The process of identity development is crucial to any individual's wellbeing. It involves understanding one's place within their environment, culture, society, family, and community while also developing a sense of self that is separate from these factors. This process requires a sense of safety, support, and acceptance; however, when familial rejection occurs it can lead to severe consequences for an individual's mental health and overall functioning. For those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual/aromantic, nonbinary, pansexual, genderqueer, demisexual, polyamorous, kinky, aromantic, or another orientation or gender expression (LGBTQ+), this may be especially challenging due to the stigma and discrimination they face.
As researchers have found, families play a vital role in shaping how individuals develop their identities. When parents reject or show hostility towards their child's sexual orientation or gender expression, this can create significant distress and anxiety for the child or adolescent. Research has shown that this can result in increased rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and substance abuse among LGBT youth.
When young people experience such familial rejection they are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as running away from home, dropping out of school, and experiencing homelessness.
Familial rejection can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which is particularly damaging during the formative years of identity development. This can cause individuals to question their own worth and value, leading to lower self-esteem and increased feelings of shame. They may also experience difficulty forming meaningful relationships with peers and adults outside of their family. This can further exacerbate the negative impact on mental health and overall functioning.
In addition to these direct consequences, familial rejection can lead to lasting psychological effects that persist into adulthood. Studies have shown that those who experienced parental rejection are at greater risk of developing disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and borderline personality disorder later in life. They are also more likely to report difficulties in romantic relationships, workplace challenges, and general social interactions. These effects can be compounded by other factors such as discrimination in schools or communities, making it difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals to feel accepted and integrated into society.
Despite the devastating impacts of familial rejection on identity development, there are ways that families can support their LGBTQ+ children and help them develop a positive sense of self. Parents and caregivers should strive to create an open and accepting environment where their child's identities are valued and celebrated. This includes being willing to listen without judgment and respecting their chosen name, pronouns, and expression of gender or sexuality. It also means avoiding shaming language or trying to 'fix' their child's orientation or gender identity. By providing this supportive environment, parents and caregivers can help their child build resilience and create a strong foundation for future success.
What psychological consequences arise when familial rejection undermines the foundation of identity development in LGBT youth?
The psychological consequences that result from familial rejection during adolescence can be particularly devastating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals. Studies have shown that family acceptance is one of the most important factors contributing to positive outcomes for these young people.