How do Conservative Religious Norms Shape Ethical Reasoning, Moral Decision-Making, and Self-Concept in LGBT Believers?
Religion has always played an important role in shaping human belief systems and societies across time. As such, it is no surprise that religion can also shape an individual's self-concept, moral decision-making, and ethical reasoning. This holds true even for those who identify as LGBT within religious communities. In this essay, I will explore how conservative religious norms shape ethical reasoning, moral decision-making, and self-concept among LGBT believers.
Examples from Psychology Research
Psychological research provides insights into the relationship between religion and sexuality, revealing that religious individuals tend to view homosexuality as immoral or sinful.
One study found that when compared to nonreligious people, religious individuals were more likely to hold negative attitudes towards same-sex relationships (Baker & Miller, 2015). Another study showed that religious individuals were less accepting of gay marriage than nonreligious individuals (Kamp et al., 2017). These studies suggest that religious norms can influence individuals' views on sexuality, which may impact their ethical reasoning and moral decision-making around LGBT issues.
Impact on Self-Concept
In addition to influencing ethical reasoning and moral decision-making, religious norms can also shape an individual's self-concept. Studies have shown that LGBT individuals who attend a conservative church are more likely to report lower levels of self-esteem and higher rates of depression than those who do not attend church at all (Smith et al., 2019). This suggests that conservative religious environments can create feelings of shame and guilt in LGBT individuals, which can negatively impact their overall sense of well-being.
This essay has explored how conservative religious norms shape ethical reasoning, moral decision-making, and self-concept in LGBT believers. Research shows that religious beliefs can influence individuals' views on sexuality, which can affect their ethical reasoning and moral decision-making.
Religious environments can create feelings of shame and guilt in LGBT individuals, negatively impacting their self-concept. It is important for religious communities to acknowledge the complexities of sexual orientation and gender identity and work towards creating more inclusive spaces for all members.
How do conservative religious norms shape ethical reasoning, moral decision-making, and self-concept in LGBT believers?
Conservative religious norms can have a significant impact on the way that individuals from the LGBT community perceive themselves and make decisions. These norms often emphasize traditional gender roles and heterosexual relationships, which may conflict with the identities of those who identify as LGBT. As a result, LGBT believers may face internalized stigma and shame that can affect their sense of self-worth and identity.