LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning, while sexual identity refers to an individual's perception of their own sexual orientation. Gender identity is how someone perceives themselves in terms of masculinity or femininity. This means that individuals who identify as either or both may have different experiences than those who identify with one or the other exclusively. It has been observed that non-affirming environments can create cognitive and emotional consequences for LGBTQ adolescents who are still figuring out their sexual and gender identities.
These consequences can be seen through various aspects of life including work, school, family and friends, and society as a whole.
If an individual was raised in an environment where they were taught that being LGBTQ is wrong, it could cause them to feel ashamed about themselves leading to low self-esteem and confidence issues which then translates into social anxiety when interacting with others. They might also experience depression due to lack of support from peers which would affect their performance at school or even lead to dropping out altogether.
They may become isolated from family members who do not understand or accept this newfound identity causing further emotional distress.
There are potential long-term effects such as increased risk for substance abuse and suicide among LGBTQ youth who grew up in non-affirming settings. Studies show that these individuals are more likely than heterosexuals to engage in risky behaviors like drug use and self-harm because they have limited resources available for coping with stressors associated with their identities (Buchanan et al., 2015). Such actions often stem from feelings of rejection felt by those struggling with coming out or dealing with discrimination during childhood/adolescence (Garofalo & D'Augelli, 2007).
Understanding the cognitive-emotional impacts on adolescents struggling with fluid sexual identities is essential so we can provide better services and create safe spaces where all people regardless of gender expression are accepted without judgment. This article provides insight into how non-affirming environments negatively influence LGBTQ teens while suggesting ways forward through education campaigns promoting acceptance of diversity within schools or communities where possible.
What are the cognitive-emotional consequences of negotiating fluid sexual and gender identities in non-affirming environments for LGBTQ adolescents?
In non-affirming environments, where one's gender identity is not accepted by others, there can be significant negative consequences for an individual's cognition and emotions. Adolescent LGBTQ individuals may experience feelings of confusion, shame, guilt, isolation, anxiety, depression, and even self-harm due to their gender identity being rejected by those around them.