Queer resilience is an umbrella term that refers to the ability of individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ to adapt, survive, and grow morally despite the societal pressures they face due to their identity. This concept has become increasingly popular among academics in recent years, who have suggested that it can be used to challenge traditional ideas about human development and progress. In this article, we will explore how queer resilience informs broader theories of adaptation, survival, and moral growth.
Let's consider how queer resilience challenges traditional models of human development. Traditional models assume that humans develop in predictable ways, typically following a linear path from childhood through adolescence into adulthood. These models often emphasize conformity and obedience, which are values that do not always align with those held by many members of the LGBTQ+ community. By contrast, queer resilience suggests that people can deviate from these norms without losing their capacity for growth or self-improvement. In fact, some scholars argue that queer resilience may even allow individuals to gain new insights into themselves and the world around them.
Researchers have found that LGBTQ+ youth who experience rejection or discrimination are more likely to develop resilience skills like emotional regulation, social support seeking, and problem solving (Hatzenbuehler & Keyes, 2013).
Let's consider how queer resilience relates to survival. Many LGBTQ+ individuals face significant obstacles when it comes to finding housing, employment, healthcare, and other basic necessities. Despite these challenges, they continue to thrive and achieve success in many areas of life. This has led some academics to suggest that queer resilience may be one of the factors that allows this group to persist despite societal pressures. Researchers have found that LGBTQ+ adults tend to report higher levels of overall wellbeing than their heterosexual peers, despite facing greater levels of discrimination (Grant et al., 2011). This suggests that queer resilience may play a role in helping individuals cope with the stressors associated with marginalization.
Let's consider how queer resilience informs moral development. Some scholars have suggested that queer identity is inherently moral, arguing that it requires courage, integrity, and compassion (Meyer, 2003). This idea runs counter to traditional models of morality, which often focus on conformity and obedience. By contrast, queer resilience suggests that individuals can find meaning and purpose outside of traditional norms, opening up new possibilities for personal growth and development.
Researchers have found that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to engage in acts of activism or advocacy than their non-queer peers (Herek & Capitanio, 2010). These actions demonstrate a commitment to justice and social change, values that are essential for moral development.
Queer resilience provides a powerful lens through which to view human adaptation, survival, and moral development. It challenges traditional assumptions about what it means to be human and offers new insights into the ways in which individuals can thrive in the face of adversity. As we continue to explore this concept, we will likely learn even more about its potential for shaping our understanding of human behavior and progress.
References:
Hatzenbuehler, M. L., & Keyes, K. M. (2013). The impact of rejection sensitivity on sexual orientation-related stress, mental health, substance use, and suicidality among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth. Journal of Adolescent Health, 52(4), 447–452. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2012.12.0029
Grant, J. M., Mottet, L. T., Tanis, J., Harrison, J., Herman, J. L., & Keisling, M. J. (2011). Injustice at every turn: A report of the national transgender discrimination survey. Washington, DC: National Center for Transgender Equality.
Herek, G. M., & Capitanio, J. P. (2010). Attitudes toward sexual minorities in America: Public support for antibias policies and the politics of gender identity. Public Opinion Quarterly, 74(5), 823–853.
In what ways does queer resilience inform broader theories of adaptation, survival, and moral growth?
Resilience is defined as the ability to bounce back from adversity, overcome challenges, and adapt to new situations. It encompasses both individual and collective efforts towards personal growth, overcoming obstacles, developing coping mechanisms, finding support systems, and navigating difficult environments. Queer individuals have experienced marginalization, discrimination, and oppression that has impacted their mental health, identity development, social relationships, and political activism.