Marginalized Identity Shapes Ethical Expectations In Friendship
Friendships are an important aspect of life that can be shaped by various factors, including one's own identity and background. Marginalized identities, such as those based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, or disability, can have significant impacts on how individuals approach friendships and what they expect from them. In this article, I will explore some ways that marginalized identity shapes ethical expectations in friendship.
Marginalized identities may affect one's perception of trustworthiness in potential friends.
People who belong to marginalized groups may have experienced discrimination and prejudice due to their identity, which could lead them to feel distrustful towards others. This mistrust can extend into friendships, where individuals may be more cautious about sharing personal information or opening up emotionally.
Marginalized identities may make it harder for individuals to find like-minded friends with whom they share common experiences or values. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can also impact the development of a healthy friendship.
Marginalized identities can influence how friends interact with each other.
If someone has a marginalized identity, they may face obstacles when trying to express themselves freely or openly. They may fear being judged or dismissed by their friends based on their identity. As a result, they may avoid topics related to their identity altogether or limit their expression to safe areas. This can lead to tension within the friendship, as the individual feels unable to fully be themselves around their friend. Alternatively, friends may take advantage of their marginalized friend's vulnerabilities, leading to abuse or exploitation.
Marginalized identities can shape the level of support provided between friends. Individuals who belong to marginalized groups often experience systemic oppression that can negatively impact their mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Friends who are aware of this struggle may provide additional support and understanding.
Without awareness of these issues, they may not know how to help. Similarly, friends from marginalized backgrounds may need to work harder to maintain their friendships due to external pressures. These factors can strain relationships and create an imbalance in support.
Marginalized identities can affect what is expected of a friendship. People from marginalized groups may expect more empathy and understanding from their friends than those who do not share the same experiences. They may feel a greater need for acceptance and validation from their friends, which could put pressure on the relationship. On the other hand, individuals without marginalized identities may not understand the unique challenges faced by their friends and struggle to provide adequate support.
Marginalized identities play a significant role in shaping ethical expectations in friendship. By recognizing and addressing these issues, we can better support our friends with marginalized identities and build stronger, more authentic relationships.
How does marginalized identity shape ethical expectations in friendship?
Friendship is a complex social phenomenon that involves various factors such as mutual trust, support, and understanding. Individuals with marginalized identities may experience additional challenges in forming and maintaining friendships due to social stigma and prejudice. Marginalized individuals may feel pressure to meet certain ethical expectations from their friends or society at large, including conforming to normative behavioral standards, suppressing parts of themselves, and avoiding conflict.