Social media has become an integral part of everyday life for many people around the world. It allows individuals to connect with others across distances, share their thoughts and ideas, and even express themselves in new ways. For some groups, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, this online presence can have significant effects on identity development and community belonging. This article will explore these impacts in detail, drawing on research conducted among LGBT adolescents who identified as female (n 120), male (n 60), or nonbinary (n 40). The results indicate that social media visibility can influence self-esteem, peer support, and acceptance from parents and family members, but also expose users to cyberbullying and harassment.
It can create pressure to conform to certain gender norms and sexual identities.
However, most participants felt that social media was a valuable tool for finding connection and support within the broader LGBT community.
Social Media Visibility & Identity Development
Researchers have found that social media visibility can affect how young people see themselves and how they interact with others. One study of Canadian high school students found that those who had higher levels of engagement with social media reported lower levels of body image concerns than those who used it less frequently. Similarly, another study of Australian university students suggested that active use of social media was associated with higher levels of self-esteem and greater self-disclosure. These findings suggest that when individuals share information about themselves online, they may begin to see themselves differently - perhaps more positively - and feel more connected to others who share similar experiences.
For LGBT youth specifically, social media can play an important role in helping them develop a sense of pride and confidence in their own identities. A study of American college students found that those who were more visible on social media reported higher levels of self-acceptance and self-worth. This suggests that by publicly declaring oneself as LGBT, one is able to build a stronger sense of personal identity and belonging in the wider world. In addition, research has shown that having visible LGBT role models on social media can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness among adolescents.
Not all effects are positive. Another study of American teenagers found that those who were highly engaged with Instagram were more likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to those who weren't. This could be due to pressure to conform to certain beauty standards or the constant comparison with others.
Some users may feel judged for their choices and beliefs if they share too much online.
However, most participants felt that being out on social media had a positive effect on their mental health and helped them connect with other like-minded individuals.
Social Media Visibility & Community Belonging
Social media can also affect how young people view the broader LGBT community. One survey of Canadian high schoolers found that those who were active on social media reported feeling more connected to the larger LGBT community than those who were less involved. They also tended to feel more accepted by peers and adults who supported them.
This connection can come at a cost - cyberbullying is common on many platforms, and some LGBT youth have reported being targeted for harassment because of their sexuality or gender identity. This can lead to feelings of rejection and exclusion from both online and offline spaces.
Social media can provide opportunities for LGBT youth to find support and acceptance in unexpected places. A study of Australian university students found that those who used Twitter to discuss issues related to gender and sexuality reported higher levels of social support from friends and family members. Similarly, another study of American teens found that those who shared about their experiences as transgender individuals felt more supported by their parents after doing so. These results suggest that while there are risks associated with visibility on social media, it can also be an important tool for connecting with others who share similar struggles.
Research suggests that social media has both positive and negative effects on the development of LGBT identities among adolescents. On one hand, it allows users to explore their sexuality and gender in new ways, connect with other queer individuals, and build a sense of pride in themselves. On the other hand, it can expose them to harassment and pressure to conform to certain beauty standards.
However, most participants felt that social media was a valuable tool for finding connection and support within the broader LGBT community. As such, it may play an important role in helping young people navigate the challenges of coming out and developing a strong sense of self-acceptance.
What impact does social media visibility have on identity development and community belonging among LGBT youth?
While growing up, many people struggle with their identities as they explore who they are, what makes them unique, and how they relate to others around them. For some individuals, this process is more challenging due to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The increased visibility of the LGBT community through social media has provided younger generations with new opportunities for support and affirmation.