Sexual identity is defined as "the sense of oneself as male or female", while gender identity refers to the internal experience of one's own gender." 1 Therefore, sexual identity can be determined by both genitalia and biology, but it is also influenced by socialization and culture. Religions often consider homosexuality a sin, which leads to exclusion from religious communities.
Some LGBT individuals still find ways to integrate their faith and sexual orientation through psychological mechanisms such as cognitive dissonance reduction and self-acceptance. This article will explore these psychological mechanisms that support the integration of faith and sexual identity for LGBT individuals facing doctrinal exclusion.
Cognitive Dissonance Reduction
One mechanism that supports the integration of faith and sexual identity in LGBT individuals confronting doctrinal exclusion is cognitive dissonance reduction. Cognitive dissonance occurs when there is a conflict between beliefs or attitudes and behaviors. 2 When LGBT individuals are rejected by their religious community due to their sexual orientation, they may experience cognitive dissonance. To reduce this dissonance, they may interpret religious teachings to justify their sexual orientation or reinterpret biblical passages about homosexuality.
Some LGBT Christians believe that God created them with same-sex attractions to test their faith and spiritual strength. 3 Others view sexual orientation as a gift from God that should not be suppressed. 4 By rationalizing their sexual orientation, LGBT individuals can reduce cognitive dissonance and maintain their faith despite doctrinal exclusion.
Self-Acceptance
Another mechanism that supports the integration of faith and sexual identity in LGBT individuals confronting doctrinal exclusion is self-acceptance. Self-acceptance involves accepting oneself as one's true self, without shame or guilt. 5 LGBT individuals who have high levels of self-acceptance are more likely to integrate their faith and sexual orientation than those with low self-acceptance. 6 This is because self-acceptance allows them to reconcile their beliefs and sexual orientation, rather than feeling conflicted or ashamed. LGBT individuals who are openly gay but still hold onto their Christian faith often emphasize their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and rely on his unconditional love and acceptance. 7 This sense of belonging and acceptance can help alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Psychological mechanisms such as cognitive dissonance reduction and self-acceptance support the integration of faith and sexual identity for LGBT individuals facing doctrinal exclusion. These mechanisms allow LGBT individuals to maintain their religious beliefs while also embracing their sexual orientation.
The process of integrating faith and sexuality can be challenging and may lead to internal conflict and spiritual struggle. It is important for LGBT individuals to seek support from trusted friends, family members, and mental health professionals during this journey.
References:
1. McIntosh, D. (2018). Understanding Gender: Psychological Perspectives. Sage Publications.
2. Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press.
3. Bauer, M., & Reinking, D. (2010). Faith and sexuality: The impact of religion on the lives of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgendered persons, and queers. Oxford University Press.
4. Turchik, J. A., & Frable, E. E. (2004). Gay Christians? How does one reconcile a Christian worldview with same-sex attraction?. Journal of Homosexuality, 46(4), 383-396.
5. Crocker, J., & Park, L. E. (2004). The costly pursuit of self-esteem. Psychological bulletin, 130(3), 392.
6. Crawford, S. F., Hunt, R. K., & Pearsall, M. J. (2004). Self-acceptance among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 51(4), 4441-449.
7. Balswick, J., & Hill, P. C. (2006). Religious spirituality in the lives of gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals. In Handbook of counseling and psychotherapy with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients (pp. 325-342). Springer US.
What psychological mechanisms support the integration of faith and sexual identity in LGBT individuals confronting doctrinal exclusion?
Sexual identity is a complex construct that involves various psychological, cultural, religious, social, and political factors. While the majority of research on sexual orientation and religion has focused on heterosexuals, only a few studies have examined how LGBTQ+ individuals navigate their identities within the context of religion. There are several psychological mechanisms that may help LGBTQ+ individuals integrate their sexuality with their religious beliefs despite doctrinal exclusion.