LGBT adolescence is a crucial stage for developmental milestones including sexual exploration, identity formation, and social integration. While research has shown that being exposed to religious messages can be harmful for LGBT youth mental health, few studies explore how religious rejection affects psychological growth in this population. This study aims to examine the impact of religious condemnation on LGBT adolescent's self-acceptance, emotional well-being, and identity exploration. The findings suggest that religious condemnation leads to feelings of shame, guilt, and fear which can hinder sexual exploration, identity expression, and overall positive mental health outcomes. In addition, it promotes stigma and prejudice that increases vulnerability to bullying and discrimination. To promote resilience and support LGBT adolescent's emotional well-being, it is essential to address religious beliefs and values to create safe environments that foster acceptance, respect, and inclusion.
The study used a mixed-methods approach involving focus groups and interviews with LGBT adolescents and parents of LGBT children. Participants were recruited through community organizations, online forums, and snowball sampling. Data collection took place at two points, six months apart, to track changes over time. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
The results indicate that religious condemnation negatively impacted the participants' well-being and psychosocial development. Religious teachings created an atmosphere of judgment, isolation, and confusion about their identities. They also felt that they had to hide or deny their true selves due to external pressure from family, friends, and society. The lack of openness and honesty led to internalized homophobia, self-criticism, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. These findings confirm previous research on the harmful effects of religious rejection in this population, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for expression and support.
This study demonstrates how religious rejection can hinder sexual exploration, identity expression, and overall positive mental health outcomes for LGBT adolescents. It emphasizes the need for more inclusive approaches that promote diversity, equity, and social justice within faith communities. By providing resources, education, and advocacy, we can create a safer environment for all individuals regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs.
What impact does religious condemnation have on identity exploration, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being in LGBT adolescents?
Research indicates that religious condemnation can negatively impact the process of identity exploration, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being among LGBT adolescents. In particular, religious condemnation may lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and rejection, which can significantly undermine an individual's sense of self-worth and self-esteem.