A society is a group of individuals who share certain beliefs, values, and norms. They interact with each other through various means such as language, customs, traditions, laws, social institutions, and cultural practices. Some societies have celebrated queer identities for centuries while others have recently started to do so. In these societies, people identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, nonbinary, pansexual, polyamorous, and asexual. These individuals are often marginalized due to their gender identity and sexual orientation.
They are now being commodified, which means that companies use them to make money. The psychological consequences of living in such societies can be devastating.
What is Queer Identity?
Queer identity refers to an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression that does not conform to the dominant culture's expectations. It includes all genders and sexual orientations that exist beyond heterosexuality and cisgenderism. Queer individuals may have multiple attractions towards different genders or none at all. They may also identify with a combination of genders or change their physical appearance based on their feelings and preferences. This term was initially used as a derogatory word but later reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community to represent their distinctiveness from heteronormativity.
Societies That Celebrate Queer Identities
Societies that celebrate queer identities acknowledge and appreciate their existence. They provide support systems, advocacy groups, and safe spaces for this group of people.
Some countries have legalized same-sex marriage and allowed transgender individuals to serve openly in the military. Certain festivals and events promote acceptance and respect for queer individuals. Some universities offer courses on LGBTQ+ studies, and organizations provide resources for mental health services.
Commodifying Queer Identities
Commodification involves using a product or service for profit instead of its intended purpose. Companies often exploit the LGBTQ+ community by marketing products aimed at them. These include rainbow flags, pride month shirts, and other merchandise. They use slogans such as "love is love" to sell products to consumers who identify themselves as gay or lesbian. This commodification can be harmful because it reduces queer identity to material goods rather than real experiences. It makes it seem like being queer is about consumerism rather than personal expression or social justice.
Psychological Consequences
Living in societies where one's identity is both celebrated and commodified has psychological consequences. First, it creates an expectation that all queer individuals should behave according to mainstream standards of beauty, fashion, and behavior. Second, it puts pressure on them to conform to these expectations, which can lead to self-doubt and anxiety. Third, they may feel alienated from their communities if they do not fit into what is considered desirable in those societies. Fourth, companies target them with advertisements, promotions, and special offers, making them feel like they are worthless without money.
They may experience internalized homophobia or transphobia due to constant exposure to negative messages about their sexuality or gender.
What are the psychological consequences of living in societies that simultaneously celebrate and commodify queer identity?
The commodification of queer identity can have several psychological consequences for individuals living in such societies. Firstly, it may lead to feelings of internalized homophobia, where people begin to view their sexuality as something shameful and unworthy rather than simply a part of who they are. This can result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.