As researchers have found, the experiences of being gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or questioning during adolescence are often characterized by feelings of rejection from family members, friends, peers, and school communities (Hatzenbuehler & McLaughlin, 2014; Hatzenbuehler et al., 2016). In particular, those who identify as LGBTQ+ report higher rates of victimization based on their identity than heterosexuals do (Russell et al., 2011), and this can lead to long-term psychological difficulties (Savin-Williams et al., 2015). This is problematic for several reasons. First, it suggests that queer individuals experience more frequent social isolation, which can impact their ability to form supportive relationships and develop secure attachments later in life (Kreager et al., 2019). Second, it may contribute to internalizing negative messages about one's self-worth and sexuality (VanderLaan et al., 2020).
It can reduce access to resources like school counselors, mental health services, and other supports that could be helpful in promoting resilience and well-being (Cochran et al., 2017).
To address these challenges, we need to understand how adolescent social rejection shapes queer identity, self-perception, and long-term psychological well-being. One way to approach this topic is through the lens of identity development theory, which posits that individuals' sense of identity is shaped by interactions with others over time (Erikson, 1968; Marcia, 1966). According to Erikson, a young person will explore multiple identities throughout adolescence before settling into a stable adult identity (Marcia, 1966).
If they are repeatedly rejected or denied opportunities to express their true self, they may become disconnected from their true identity and struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem (Hatzenbuehler & McLaughlin, 2014). This process can lead to emotional distress, increased risk for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even suicide attempts (Goldberg et al., 2015).
Research suggests that social acceptance plays an important role in promoting positive outcomes like self-acceptance and self-efficacy (Ferguson et al., 2020).
Studies have found that LGBTQ+ youth who feel accepted by family members tend to experience lower rates of depressive symptoms, higher levels of resilience, and improved mental health overall (Miyake et al., 2017). Similarly, those who report having supportive friends and peers often exhibit greater confidence, pride in themselves, and better coping skills (Ryan et al., 2013). These findings suggest that social connection is essential for fostering healthy development during adolescence.
Many LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face stigma and discrimination long after their teenage years, which can have lasting consequences on their well-being (Bradford et al., 2020).
Queer adults are more likely than heterosexuals to report experiencing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, leading to negative psychological impacts like internalized homophobia, low self-esteem, and fear of rejection (Katz & Chester, 2016; Sell et al., 2021). This highlights the need for continued efforts to promote awareness, understanding, and acceptance within families, schools, workplaces, and communities.
Research indicates that adolescent social rejection has significant implications for queer individuals' identity, self-perception, and long-term well-being. To address these challenges, we must prioritize building a culture of inclusion and belonging where all young people feel safe expressing their true selves without fear of judgment or prejudice. By doing so, we can help lay the foundation for positive identity development and support healthy emotional growth throughout life.
How does social rejection in adolescence shape queer identity, self-perception, and long-term psychological well-being?
Adolescent years are a crucial stage of human development characterized by exploring one's sexuality, gender identity, and relationships with others. When a teenager experiences social rejection due to their LGBTQ+ status, it can have significant implications on their identity formation, self-esteem, and mental health.