Relational suppression is the act of denying, minimizing, or hiding one's true feelings and desires related to romantic or sexual attraction to another person. It can also refer to suppressing one's sexual orientation or gender identity for fear of social stigma or discrimination. Secrecy refers to the practice of keeping such aspects of oneself hidden from others, including friends, family members, and coworkers. Marginalization is the process by which individuals are pushed to the fringes of society due to their differences. These practices have long-term effects on mental health and identity formation that require further examination.
Relational suppression and secrecy can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Individuals who engage in these behaviors may feel isolated, lonely, and misunderstood. They may struggle to form meaningful relationships or maintain existing ones, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This can result in poor physical and emotional well-being.
Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals who experience discrimination, harassment, and violence are more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms than those who do not (Cochran & Mays, 2009).
Suppressing one's sexuality or gender identity can cause confusion about who they are and what they want out of life. This can be especially challenging during adolescence when young people are exploring their identities and figuring out how to navigate the world.
Marginalization can also have a significant impact on mental health and identity formation. When individuals are excluded or marginalized based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, it can create feelings of rejection, shame, and guilt. It can make them question themselves and their place in the world. It can lead to social isolation, making it difficult for them to find community and support. This can increase stress levels, leading to physical and emotional problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and chronic pain (Nuttbrock et al., 2015). Marginalization can also impact career prospects, making it harder for individuals to advance professionally due to prejudice or discrimination.
Relational suppression, secrecy, and marginalization can have serious consequences for mental health and identity formation. They can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues. They can also result in physical health problems and difficulties finding work and forming meaningful relationships. Addressing these issues requires creating spaces where individuals feel safe, supported, and valued regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It means advocating for policies that protect individuals from discrimination and promoting acceptance within communities. By doing so, we can help individuals thrive and live fulfilling lives.
What are the long-term effects of relational suppression, secrecy, and marginalization on mental health and identity formation?
The long-term effects of relational suppression, secrecy, and marginalization on mental health can be severe. Individuals who experience these forms of oppression may develop anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders as a result of chronic stress and feelings of isolation. The suppression of one's true self can lead to low self-esteem, self-doubt, and difficulty forming meaningful relationships with others.