What are the psychological effects of overt versus covert discrimination on career trajectories, professional motivation, and identity consolidation in LGBTQ adults?
There has been a growing focus on understanding how different forms of discrimination can impact individuals' mental health and wellbeing. One group that has been particularly affected by discrimination is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) adults. This group faces both overt and covert forms of discrimination, which can have unique consequences for their career trajectory, professional motivation, and identity consolidation.
Overt discrimination refers to direct and intentional acts of prejudice against members of the LGBTQ community. This type of discrimination may take the form of verbal harassment, physical assault, denial of employment or housing opportunities, or other forms of mistreatment based solely on one's sexual orientation or gender identity. Research suggests that overt discrimination can lead to negative emotional outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem among LGBTQ adults.
A study conducted by Herman and colleagues found that individuals who experienced more incidents of violence based on their sexual orientation were more likely to report symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder than those who did not experience such incidents (Herman et al., 2013). Another study found that LGBTQ people who experienced workplace discrimination had lower levels of job satisfaction and were more likely to leave their jobs than non-discriminated counterparts (Gates & Badgett, 2014). Overt discrimination can also impact career trajectories by limiting access to high-quality jobs and promotions, leading to reduced earnings and financial stability.
Covert discrimination, on the other hand, refers to subtle and indirect forms of bias that are often difficult to identify and address. This type of discrimination may be unintentional but can still have significant consequences for mental health and wellbeing. Covert discrimination includes things like misgendering an individual, assuming heterosexuality in conversations or interactions, or using exclusionary language. A study by Grossman and colleagues found that even subtle expressions of homophobia could negatively affect the mental health of gay men, with increased risk for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse (Grossman, D'Augelli, Gonsiorek, & Starks, 1987).
Covert discrimination can contribute to identity confusion among LGBTQ adults who may feel pressure to hide their true identities in order to fit in with mainstream society.
Both overt and covert discrimination can have negative effects on LGBTQ individuals' careers, professional motivation, and sense of self. It is important for organizations and individuals to recognize these challenges and work towards creating more inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and supported regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. By doing so, we can help ensure a better future for all members of our community.
What are the psychological effects of overt versus covert discrimination on career trajectories, professional motivation, and identity consolidation in LGBTQ adults?
There is increasing evidence that both overt and covert discrimination can negatively impact career trajectories, professional motivation, and identity consolidation in LGBTQ adults. Overt discrimination refers to explicit prejudice against individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, while covert discrimination involves subtle forms of prejudice, such as microaggressions or exclusion from social networks.