What is spiritual resilience? Why do some people have it? How does it relate to gender identity?
Spiritual resilience refers to an individual's ability to cope with adversity and maintain their mental health despite difficult circumstances. It involves both psychological and religious components that can help individuals navigate challenges in life. Research has shown that LGBTQ+ individuals often experience discrimination and stigma due to their identities, which can negatively impact their mental wellbeing.
Some queer believers have been able to remain spiritually resilient even when faced with systemic marginalization within their faith communities. This article will explore how cognitive, emotional, and social processes underlie this phenomenon.
Cognitive Processes
One way that queer believers can maintain spiritual resilience is through the development of positive thinking patterns.
They may choose to focus on the positives of their situation rather than dwelling on negative aspects. They may also engage in problem-solving strategies to find creative solutions for managing challenges they face.
They may seek out supportive social networks or resources that affirm their identity and provide a sense of belonging. These actions are all cognitive processes that promote resilience by providing a buffer against stressors.
Emotional Processes
Another factor underlying spiritual resilience is emotional regulation. Queer believers who are able to manage their feelings effectively can better cope with the negative consequences of marginalization. This includes recognizing and labeling emotions as they arise and using coping skills such as deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to reduce anxiety or sadness. Some individuals may also turn to their faith or beliefs to process their experiences and find meaning during difficult times.
Social Processes
Social processes play an important role in spiritual resilience. Many queer believers find support from fellow community members who share similar identities and experiences. They may participate in activism or advocacy efforts to create change within their faith communities or work towards greater acceptance in society at large. These activities help them feel connected to others and empowered to make a difference, which can contribute to their overall wellbeing.
What cognitive, emotional, and social processes underlie the spiritual resilience of queer believers in the face of systemic religious marginalization?
Although there is no one-size-fits-all explanation for why individuals become religiously marginalized in LGBTQ+ communities, scholars have identified several factors that may contribute to this phenomenon. Religious systems tend to view homosexuality as morally wrong, and this belief can lead to discrimination, violence, and rejection.