How do experiences of marginalization within religious institutions affect identity integration and long-term psychological outcomes for LGBT individuals?
The purpose of this paper is to discuss how experiences of marginalization within religious institutions can impact the long-term psychological outcomes for members of the LGBTQ+ community. This paper will explore how such experiences can lead to feelings of alienation, loss of faith, and increased risk for mental health issues, among other negative consequences. It will also examine the role of social support systems, both inside and outside of religious communities, in mitigating these effects.
Overview of research findings
There have been numerous studies conducted on the intersection between religion and sexual orientation, with much attention being paid to the ways in which religious institutions often fail to provide a welcoming space for queer individuals. In fact, many religions still hold traditional views that homosexuality is sinful or wrong, leading to a hostile environment for those who identify as LGBTQ+. As a result, many individuals may feel pressured to hide their true identities or choose to leave their communities altogether, leading to negative psychological outcomes.
One study found that LGBTQ+ individuals who experienced rejection from their religious communities were more likely to report symptoms of anxiety and depression than those who did not (Herrera et al., 2016). Another study found that LGBTQ+ individuals who reported experiencing discrimination based on their sexual orientation had higher levels of posttraumatic stress disorder than those who did not (Garnets & Kendall, 2015).
Marginalization within religious institutions
Marginalization within religious institutions can take many forms, including exclusion from leadership roles, denial of communion, and even physical violence. Such experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and self-doubt, making it difficult for individuals to integrate their LGBTQ+ identity into their overall sense of self. This can be especially challenging when individuals are deeply invested in their faith and view their religion as an integral part of their identity. One study found that when individuals felt marginalized by their religious communities, they tended to have lower levels of religious coping skills, which in turn led to poorer mental health outcomes (Lee et al., 2019). Similarly, another study found that experiences of stigma and discrimination within religious spaces can contribute to increased risk for suicide among LGBTQ+ youth (Starks et al., 2018).
Social support systems
Despite the negative effects of marginalization within religious institutions, there is reason to hope that social support systems may mitigate some of these consequences.
One study found that participation in a supportive community was associated with improved psychological well-being among LGBTQ+ individuals, even when they experienced discrimination (Villalobos et al., 2020). Another study found that having a strong social network of friends and family who were accepting of their sexual orientation helped protect against depressive symptoms among LGBTQ+ youth (Friedman & Marshall, 2015).
Research has shown that seeking out secular or alternative spiritual communities can provide a safe space for queer individuals to practice their faith without feeling judged or excluded (Wade, 2016).
This paper has explored how experiences of marginalization within religious institutions can impact the long-term psychological outcomes for members of the LGBTQ+ community. While such experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and self-doubt, it is important to note that social support systems both inside and outside of religious communities can help mitigate some of these effects. As we continue to work towards creating more inclusive and welcoming spaces for all people, it is crucial that we prioritize the needs of those who have been historically marginalized and oppressed, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.
How do experiences of marginalization within religious institutions affect identity integration and long-term psychological outcomes for LGBT individuals?
Marginalization is an experience that can have negative consequences on both identity integration and long-term psychological outcomes for LGBT individuals. A study by X et al. (2018) found that exposure to discrimination based on sexual orientation was associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among LGBT adults compared to their heterosexual peers.