There has been an increasing awareness of the negative effects that exclusion from faith communities can have on the mental health and social wellbeing of LGBTQ individuals. Research shows that religious groups that exclude people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity often create a sense of isolation, fear, and shame for those who identify as LGBTQ. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and even suicide among affected individuals, as they struggle to cope with the pressure of living in a society that does not accept them.
What is less understood is how this prolonged exclusion impacts their psychological resilience and social wellbeing long term.
To explore this issue, researchers conducted a study involving interviews with over 100 self-identified LGBTQ individuals who had experienced exclusion from their faith community. The findings revealed several key patterns. First, many participants reported feelings of alienation and loneliness, both within the broader society and within their own families. They felt like outsiders who were unable to connect with others on a deep level due to their difference in sexuality or gender identity. Second, participants described feeling constantly judged and scrutinized by their peers, which led to low self-esteem and reduced confidence in themselves and their abilities.
Many participants reported experiencing discrimination and violence at the hands of others, including verbal harassment, physical assault, and even murder. These experiences took a heavy toll on their emotional and psychological wellbeing.
These results suggest that prolonged exclusion from faith communities can have serious consequences for the mental health and social wellbeing of LGBTQ individuals. Without supportive networks and safe spaces to express themselves openly, they may feel trapped in an environment where they are constantly struggling against prejudice and discrimination. This can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and other forms of distress, as well as difficulties forming meaningful relationships and finding fulfillment in life. It is therefore crucial that faith communities work towards creating more inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and acceptance, so that all members can thrive and flourish.
In what ways does prolonged exclusion from faith communities impact the psychological resilience and social wellbeing of LGBTQ individuals?
The prolonged exclusion from faith communities can have a negative effect on the psychological resilience and social wellbeing of LGBTQ individuals. The feeling of being rejected by one's religious community can lead to self-doubt, shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It may also result in feelings of loneliness, isolation, and lack of support.