Adolescence is a time of transition and growth, marked by physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes that impact how individuals perceive themselves and interact with others. For lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) teens, these changes can be particularly challenging due to the stigma surrounding their identity and experiences of isolation and marginalization. Peer networks can either exacerbate or mitigate this sense of isolation, while school climate shapes inclusion and belonging for LGBT youth. This paper explores the ways in which peer networks influence the experience of isolation among LGBT adolescents and how school climate influences belonging and acceptance within those networks.
Peer Networks and Isolation
Research has shown that LGBT adolescents are more likely to report feelings of isolation than non-LGBT peers (Garnets & Goldberg, 2016; Rosenthal et al., 2018). Social isolation is linked to negative mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and suicidality (Meyer, 2003), making it critical to understand its causes and mitigating factors. The influence of peer networks on isolation cannot be understated, as they provide opportunities for social support and validation that can counteract isolation's harmful effects.
Peer networks can also contribute to isolation through bullying, rejection, and other forms of mistreatment based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Rosenthal et al., 2018). In fact, research suggests that LGBT teenagers who have strong social connections with friends and family members may still feel isolated if those relationships lack acceptance or support for their identity (Clarke, Klineberg, & Pennell, 2015).
Peer networks can exacerbate isolation in several ways.
Some LGBT teens may fear coming out to peers due to fears of being rejected or harassed (Poteat et al., 2016), leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection from others.
The presence of homophobic or transphobic language within a peer group can create an environment where LGBT youth do not feel safe or accepted, further contributing to feelings of isolation (Duncan, 2017). Similarly, when LGBT adolescents experience violence or discrimination at school or in their communities, they may turn to their peers for support but find themselves marginalized by their very peers (Duncan, 2017). This can lead to a sense of betrayal and isolation, compounding pre-existing feelings of social ostracism.
Peer networks can mitigate isolation by providing spaces for validation, support, and community-building. Research has shown that social media platforms such as Instagram and Tumblr allow LGBT teens to connect with like-minded individuals and build online friendships that provide emotional support and validation (Fredrickson, 2018; Greenwood, 2019). These relationships can counteract feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of belonging, even if they are virtual rather than physical (Greenwood, 2019).
Research has found that LGBT students who have friends who are also LGBT report higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction compared to those without such connections (Niederkrotenthaler et al., 2020).
School Climate and Inclusion
School climate refers to the overall atmosphere and culture of a learning environment and its impact on student behavior and academic outcomes (Wolgemuth, 2016). A positive school climate is characterized by safety, respect, inclusion, and acceptance (Hughes et al., 2014), while a negative climate is marked by bullying, harassment, and exclusion (Wolgemuth, 2016). School climate shapes how inclusive or exclusive peers become in relation to their LGBT classmates. When a school promotes diversity and inclusion, it creates an environment where all students feel safe and supported (Wolgemuth, 2016), making it easier for them to be themselves and engage positively with others.
When schools lack such policies and practices, LGBT youth may face hostility and discrimination from both staff and peers (Wolgemuth, 2016). This can lead to increased isolation and poor mental health outcomes, further perpetuating cycles of exclusion.
Research suggests that a positive school climate can mitigate feelings of isolation among LGBT adolescents (Hughes et al., 2014; Wolgemuth, 2016).
When teachers create a welcoming and affirming classroom environment, LGBT students are more likely to report feeling accepted by their peers and less likely to experience bullying or harassment (Hughes et al., 2014). Similarly, research has found that schools with inclusive curricula and policies tend to have lower rates of bullying, harassment, and suicide attempts among LGBT teens (Wolgemuth, 2016). These findings suggest that a positive school climate is essential for fostering belonging and acceptance within peer networks.
In what ways do peer networks either exacerbate or mitigate isolation among LGBT adolescents, and how does school climate shape inclusion and belonging?
Peer networks play an important role in shaping social relationships, and they can either enhance or undermine feelings of loneliness among sexual minority teens. Research shows that while some LGBTQ+ youth face rejection and bullying from peers, others experience strong support and acceptance within their social groups (Savin-Williams et al. , 2016).