Social discrimination has been an enduring problem for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning community since time immemorial. This paper will focus on how social discrimination shapes their self-concept, resilience, and agency.
Self-concept refers to the way a person views himself/herself. In general, it is influenced by a person's past experiences, values, beliefs, culture, upbringing, and environment. LGBTQ individuals face different challenges due to their sexual orientation and gender identity. They often experience isolation from family and friends, bullying, violence, and harassment because of their identities. As such, they are more likely to struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, depression, anxiety, fear, and low self-esteem. The internalization of societal prejudice can lead to a negative view of oneself and diminished confidence. It may also affect their mental health, leading to increased risk of suicide attempts and substance abuse. On the other hand, some LGBTQ individuals develop positive self-concept as they gain acceptance from family, peers, and society at large. They learn to embrace themselves despite the stigma and become empowered advocates for equality.
Social discrimination negatively impacts the self-concept of many LGBTQ individuals but does not always determine who they are.
Resilience is defined as the ability to cope with adversity and bounce back from setbacks. LGBTQ individuals have high levels of resilience given the numerous obstacles they must overcome.
Social discrimination can weaken this capacity over time. Constant rejection, stress, and trauma can erode an individual's sense of hope, purpose, and strength. Some people develop coping mechanisms like denial or externalizing blame while others become isolated and hopeless. In addition, resilience requires support systems like family, friends, and allies to buffer against painful experiences. Unfortunately, many LGBTQ individuals lack these resources due to familial estrangement, job discrimination, homelessness, etc.
LGBTQ communities offer a network of support through organizations like PFLAG and GLSEN. These groups provide education, counseling, legal assistance, mentorship, and community events that promote emotional well-being.
Some LGBTQ individuals find strength in their identities, spirituality, creativity, activism, or professional success. They use their voices to inspire others and create change.
Social discrimination diminishes but does not eliminate LGBTQ resilience.
Agency refers to one's capacity to act independently and make choices based on personal values and desires. Social discrimination hinders this by limiting opportunities for LGBTQ individuals to flourish. It creates barriers to housing, employment, healthcare, parenthood, safety, travel, education, and civic participation.
Transgender people face higher rates of unemployment, poverty, harassment, physical assault, and sexual abuse than cisgender counterparts. Gay men have lower earnings, less access to insurance coverage, and greater risk of HIV/AIDS. Lesbians encounter gender bias in the workplace and stereotypes about masculinity and femininity. Bisexual individuals experience biphobia within both heterosexual and gay/lesbian circles. Queer people struggle with limited language and representation in society.
Social discrimination limits the agency of many LGBTQ individuals by restricting their autonomy and freedom.
Social discrimination shapes the self-concept, resilience, and agency of LGBTQ individuals differently. While it can cause harm and distress, it is not deterministic. Some LGBTQ individuals develop positive self-concept, strong resilience, and high levels of agency despite the odds. Others may never fully recover from its effects, but they can learn to cope and find meaning elsewhere. The key is providing support and resources that empower them to live fulfilling lives despite external obstacles.
How does social discrimination shape the self-concept, resilience, and agency of LGBTQ individuals?
The impact of social discrimination on LGBTQ individuals is significant. According to research, it shapes their self-concept by creating a sense of isolation and loneliness due to rejection from family, friends, and society at large. Social exclusion can also lead to low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety (Szymanski & Mereish, 2019).