Internalized stigma is defined as "the process by which members of socially stigmatized groups come to believe negative stereotypes about themselves" (Meyer et al., 2015). It can lead to self-hatred, shame, low self-esteem, feelings of guilt, and social isolation, all of which can have detrimental effects on mental health (Strauss & Poteat, 2008). External forms of stigma are those that occur outside of an individual's own mind but still affect them through prejudice, discrimination, marginalization, harassment, and violence (Link & Phelan, 2001; Mays & Cochran, 2001). These include experiences such as bullying, exclusion from social activities, job loss, family rejection, and physical assault.
In religious contexts, external stigma against LGBT individuals can be particularly severe, as many religions condemn homosexuality or gender nonconformity. This can create a sense of being ostracized or rejected by one's community, making it difficult for individuals to find support and acceptance in their spiritual lives.
Research has shown that individuals who experience both internalized and external stigma related to their sexual orientation tend to report more depressive symptoms than those who do not (Sherry et al., 2013).
Some studies suggest that internalized stigma may also play a role in shaping mental health outcomes within religious contexts. Religious beliefs and practices often emphasize traditional gender roles, heteronormativity, and conservative views on sexual behavior, creating pressure for individuals to adhere to these norms even if they do not align with their personal identities (Herek et al., 2009). This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-doubt, which can contribute to poorer mental health outcomes.
The interaction between internalized and external forms of stigma is complex and multifaceted, and can have significant effects on the mental health of LGBT individuals in religious contexts. Understanding how these forms of stigma interact is crucial for developing effective interventions and support strategies for this population.
How do internalized and external forms of stigma interact in shaping the mental health outcomes of LGBT individuals in religious contexts?
Stigma has been identified as one of the key factors that impact the mental health outcomes of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals (Vasquez et al. , 2017). Stigma is defined as "a negative judgment about someone or something" and can take two main forms - internalized and external (Ostrov, 2013).