Internalized religious doctrines are belief systems that individuals adopt from their faith community about themselves, their relationship to God, and how they should live their lives. These beliefs can influence an individual's self-concept and emotional regulation, which may be especially important for LGBT adolescents who often face social stigma due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. This study examined the role of internalized religious doctrines in shaping the self-concept and emotional regulation of LGBT adolescents.
Research has shown that internalized religious doctrines can impact an individual's sense of self and ability to regulate emotions. Internalizing these doctrines involves accepting and integrating them into one's personal belief system, resulting in feelings of guilt, shame, and fear when engaging in behaviors that conflict with those beliefs.
An individual might internalize a doctrine prohibiting premarital sex and experience anxiety before engaging in such behavior, leading to increased stress levels and difficulty controlling emotions.
Impact on Self-Concept
The way individuals perceive and evaluate themselves is known as their self-concept. Religious doctrines can shape this concept by influencing an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Specifically, internalized religious doctrines can lead to negative self-perceptions and self-esteem, particularly in the context of LGBT adolescence. LGBT youth are more likely to experience discrimination and marginalization than heterosexual peers, which can contribute to feelings of low self-worth.
Religious institutions may reinforce societal prejudices against homosexuality and transgender identities, further harming young people's sense of self-acceptance. This could result in psychological distress, social isolation, and decreased well-being.
Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation refers to an individual's ability to manage and control their emotions. Internalized religious doctrines can impact this process by creating barriers to positive coping strategies and increasing vulnerability to negative emotions.
An individual who internalizes a doctrine promoting celibacy may struggle with maintaining healthy romantic relationships or managing sexual desire. This can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt, and anxiety that can be difficult to regulate without appropriate support or intervention.
Research suggests that internalized religious doctrines play a significant role in shaping the self-concept and emotional regulation of LGBT adolescents. These beliefs can create challenges for individuals as they navigate their identity, relationships, and daily life experiences. It is essential to provide support and resources that address these issues and promote healthy mental health outcomes among LGBT youth. Future research should examine how these factors interact with other variables such as family dynamics, peer support, and cultural context to better understand their impact on well-being.
How do internalized religious doctrines shape the self-concept and emotional regulation of LGBT adolescents?
In general, internalized religious doctrines can influence an individual's self-concept and affect their ability to regulate emotions, especially for LGBT adolescents who may face greater social stigma due to their sexual orientation and gender identity. These belief systems can create a sense of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem that can negatively impact mental health and well-being, leading to increased feelings of anxiety and depression.