Participation in LGBT-Affirming Worship
Participating in LGBT-affirming worship is an important aspect of developing one's sense of self-efficacy, agency, and moral identity. This type of worship allows individuals to express their true selves without fear of judgment or condemnation, which can lead to increased confidence and empowerment.
It provides a safe space for members of the LGBT community to connect with others who share similar experiences and beliefs, allowing them to form meaningful bonds that can have a positive impact on their overall well-being.
Self-Efficacy
Participating in LGBT-affirming worship has been shown to increase feelings of self-efficacy among those involved. When people feel accepted and valued for who they are, they are more likely to believe in themselves and their abilities, leading to increased motivation and perseverance.
Being part of a supportive community can help individuals overcome negative internalized messages about their sexuality or gender identity, which can further boost their self-esteem. By affirming their identities through religious practices, participants may also develop a stronger sense of purpose and direction, which can contribute to greater life satisfaction.
Agency
LGBT-affirming worship fosters a sense of individual agency by giving participants control over their spiritual lives. Those who feel free to express their true selves in a faith context are less likely to feel constrained by societal expectations or traditional norms, and are more able to make choices based on personal values and beliefs. This can result in greater autonomy and independence, as well as a deeper connection to one's faith. It can also provide a platform for advocacy and activism, as participants become more comfortable speaking up for themselves and others within their communities.
Moral Identity
Participating in LGBT-affirming worship can influence moral identity by providing a framework for ethical decision-making and behavior. In this type of environment, individuals learn that there is no one "right" way to be queer or transgender, but rather many different paths that can lead to authenticity and fulfillment. They may also gain insights into the experiences of other members of the community, broadening their understanding of diversity and increasing empathy towards others.
This can lead to a stronger sense of morality rooted in compassion, justice, and inclusivity.
How does participation in LGBT-affirming worship influence self-efficacy, agency, and moral identity?
There are numerous studies that have explored the impact of participating in LGBT-affirming religious communities on individuals' sense of self-efficacy, agency, and moral identity. These studies suggest that LGBTQ+ people who regularly attend LGBTQ+ affirmative congregations tend to report higher levels of self-esteem, self-worth, and self-acceptance than those who do not (Hill et al. , 2018).