Intersectional experiences of discrimination have been shown to impact the development of LGBTQ+ adolescents in numerous ways. One study found that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth who experienced discrimination were more likely to report negative mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and substance abuse compared to those who did not experience discrimination. Another study found that LGBT youth who experienced discrimination were more likely to engage in risky behaviors like drug use and unprotected sex compared to their non-discriminated peers.
Intersectionality theory suggests that multiple identities can interact to create unique and complex forms of oppression. In this context, the term 'intersectional' refers to how individuals can simultaneously experience different types of identity-based discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, class, ability, and sexuality.
An Asian American woman may face both racism and sexism when she is subjected to both racial and gender stereotypes at the same time. Similarly, an LGBTQ+ person may experience homophobia or transphobia within the larger society while also experiencing ableism or fat phobia within the LGBTQ+ community itself.
When it comes to relational competence, emotional resilience, and self-esteem, research has shown that intersectional experiences of discrimination can have a significant impact on these variables. Studies have demonstrated that individuals with multiple intersecting identities tend to experience higher levels of stress due to the cumulative nature of these identities. This can lead to increased feelings of isolation, marginalization, and alienation from society as well as decreased access to resources and support systems. These experiences can hinder one's ability to form healthy relationships, resulting in lower relational competence.
These experiences may erode one's sense of worthiness and confidence, leading to low self-esteem.
Some studies suggest that being aware of one's own identity and having positive role models who share similar identities can help counteract the effects of intersectional discrimination.
One study found that black lesbian women who had strong ties to their communities and supportive families reported higher levels of self-esteem compared to those without such supports.
Understanding how intersectionality influences the development of LGBTQ+ adolescents is crucial for promoting positive mental health outcomes and reducing disparities in social justice efforts.
How do intersectional experiences of discrimination affect relational competence, emotional resilience, and self-esteem in LGBT adolescents?
Research has found that discrimination based on multiple intersecting identities such as gender identity, race, class, and sexual orientation can have significant impacts on an individual's relational competence, emotional resilience, and self-esteem.