The concept of LGBT is gaining popularity worldwide, especially among the younger generation. It refers to individuals who identify themselves as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender. These individuals are seen as those who have different sexual orientations from the conventional norm.
They also face many social issues such as discrimination, stigma, harassment, and bullying. They experience these challenges during their childhood and adolescence. As a result, this affects their development and agency. The moral and spiritual developments are affected when they realize that they belong to this community. Therefore, they may be unable to fit into society's standards, which may lead them to engage in destructive behavior. This paper will discuss how communal recognition of LGBT experiences shape their moral and spiritual agency.
LGBT people feel isolated and left out because they are different from others around them. They do not understand what they are going through.
The recognition of this group has helped them know that they are normal and should embrace themselves. When they get acceptance, they can start developing healthy relationships. According to studies, a lack of supportive communities leads to depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide. On the other hand, when they find a support system, it helps improve their psychological wellbeing.
They learn to cope with stressful situations by talking to each other, sharing experiences, and building confidence. In addition, this allows them to build trust within the community, thus improving their mental health status. It is crucial for LGBT youth to know that there are others like them, who share similar struggles and can help them navigate life better.
The communal recognition of LGBT also helps individuals to gain spirituality. Some people have lost faith in God due to the challenges they experience.
Being part of a community provides them with an opportunity to seek help from higher powers. The members encourage one another to read the Bible or Quran to find guidance on how to deal with their situation. They give each other hope as they pray together and attend religious gatherings. Through this, they develop a strong connection to the almighty creator, which brings peace into their lives. Moreover, it gives them strength and courage to face society's challenges without fear. This way, they become responsible citizens in the community, knowing that they will be supported regardless of what happens. Consequently, the community becomes more integrated, and moral values are upheld.
LGBT individuals need acceptance and recognition from the community to realize their worth. When they receive such support, they feel accepted and confident about themselves. Their morals and agency are enhanced because they understand that they belong somewhere, even when they are different from others around them. Therefore, it is essential to create platforms where these groups get support from society to grow spiritually and mentally.
In what ways does communal recognition of LGBT experiences shape moral development and spiritual agency?
Moral development is closely associated with an individual's experience in social contexts and relationships (Bandura, 1986). Communities that recognize the unique challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals can help promote a sense of belonging and identity within these marginalized groups.