There has been increasing attention paid to the role that family plays in shaping an individual's religious beliefs and identity. Studies have shown that individuals who come from religious families are more likely to hold similar religious beliefs and practices as their parents, leading many researchers to explore how this influence extends beyond religion into other aspects of life. One area where this may be particularly relevant is in terms of attitudes towards LGBT identities.
Familial religiosity alone does not fully explain an individual's attitudes towards LGBT individuals; peer influences can also play a significant role in shaping these attitudes. This essay will examine how familial religiosity intersects with peer influences to shape attitudes towards LGBT identities, exploring both the positive and negative effects of each factor. It will conclude with recommendations for how individuals can best navigate these intersections to create a supportive environment for LGBT individuals within their community.
Familial Religiosity
Familial religiosity refers to the degree to which an individual's religious beliefs and practices align with those of their immediate or extended family. Research suggests that this alignment is often stronger among children than adults, with younger siblings tending to share more religious beliefs and practices with their older brothers and sisters than vice versa (Pargament et al., 2007). This pattern is thought to be due in part to the fact that children model their behavior after that of their parents and siblings, imitating what they see around them (Study). As such, growing up in a religious household can lead to the development of strong religious beliefs and practices that persist throughout adulthood. In addition, families often serve as a primary source of socialization and support for members, providing a sense of belonging and connection that is especially important during times of uncertainty or change (Ellison & Sherkat, 1994). These factors make it likely that individuals who come from religious households are more likely to hold similar religious beliefs and practices as their parents and other family members.
Peer Influence
Peer influence refers to the extent to which an individual's behavior and attitudes are shaped by those of their peers, rather than solely influenced by familial ties. While much research has focused on the negative effects of peer pressure on young people, there is also evidence to suggest that positive peer influences can play a role in shaping healthy behaviors and attitudes (Sussman et al., 2008).
Studies have found that adolescents who have friends who engage in healthy behaviors like exercise or nutrition are more likely to do so themselves (RaineKing et al., 2013). Similarly, when it comes to LGBT identities, research suggests that positive peer influence can help counteract negative messages and experiences related to sexual orientation or gender identity (Hatzenbuehler, 2009). In fact, some studies have shown that having at least one close friend who identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender was associated with lower rates of depression and substance use among LGBT youth (Flentje & Kubiak, 2015).
Intersectionality of Familial Religiosity and Peer Influence
While both familial religiosity and peer influence can shape an individual's attitudes towards LGBT individuals, how these factors interact is complex and varies depending on context. In general, however, family members may be more likely to hold similar religious beliefs about LGBT issues if they come from a religious household, while peers are less likely to share those beliefs if they live in a predominantly heterosexual or cis-normative community. This means that for individuals coming from religious households, their peer group may provide the first exposure to alternative perspectives on sexual orientation and gender identity.
This doesn't necessarily mean that peer influences will override familial beliefs; rather, families may play a critical role in shaping an individual's ability to navigate these differences in belief systems and create a supportive environment for all members of the community.
Recommendations
Individuals seeking to create a supportive environment for LGBT individuals within their communities should take into account the interplay between familial religiosity and peer influences.
Parents and caregivers can model openness and acceptance toward LGBT identities by talking honestly about these topics at home, engaging in activities that celebrate diversity, and providing resources and support for LGBT youth and their families (Family Acceptance Project). Similarly, educators and healthcare providers can work to create safe spaces for LGBT youth by promoting inclusivity and respect in the classroom and clinic. By recognizing the intersections of familial religiosity and peer influence, we can better understand how to create supportive environments that foster positive attitudes towards all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
How does familial religiosity intersect with peer influences to shape attitudes toward LGBT identities?
Familial religious beliefs can play a significant role in shaping individuals' attitudes towards LGBT identities as they are often transmitted from parents to their children through socialization. Research has shown that parental religious values influence children's perception of sexual minorities, such as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT).