Social exclusion refers to the experience of being deliberately avoided, ignored, or treated unfairly because one is perceived as different from others. It can have detrimental effects on mental health and well-being, including increased risk for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Spiritual engagement has been shown to provide psychological benefits such as improved mood, coping skills, and self-esteem. This study explores whether spiritual engagement also buffers against negative outcomes associated with social exclusion and discrimination. The research methodology involved collecting data from participants who identified as LGBTQ+ and analyzing it using regression analysis. The results indicated that higher levels of spiritual engagement were associated with lower levels of social exclusion and discrimination. In other words, individuals who reported greater spiritual involvement experienced fewer adverse consequences of being socially ostracized due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Specifically, they had reduced feelings of isolation, rejection, and stigmatization.
Those with high levels of spirituality appeared more resilient in coping with discriminatory experiences. These findings suggest that engaging in religious or spiritual practices may help individuals manage the painful impacts of marginalization.
Further research is needed to confirm these results and explore potential mechanisms underlying this protective effect.
This study supports previous research indicating that spiritual engagement promotes positive psychological health.
Previous studies have found that spirituality is associated with better mental health outcomes in various populations (e.g., cancer patients, older adults) and contexts (e.g., natural disasters). It is possible that spiritual engagement provides a sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to others, which can buffer against the negative effects of social exclusion and discrimination.
Religion or spirituality may provide a support system for individuals experiencing prejudice and marginalization. Spiritual beliefs and practices emphasize love, compassion, and acceptance, values that are often lacking in the larger society. As such, they may offer a counterweight to societal messages of rejection and exclusion.
Religious and spiritual communities may serve as safe havens for those who feel isolated and excluded by wider society. They provide a space where people can connect with like-minded individuals and receive emotional and practical support.
This study highlights the importance of considering spiritual engagement as a potential intervention strategy for addressing the harmful effects of social exclusion and discrimination.