In many parts of the world, LGBTQ individuals are marginalized and discriminated against due to their sexual orientation and gender identity. To complicate matters further, some religious communities also have strict beliefs about these issues that can lead to negative attitudes towards LGBTQ people. This can lead to increased levels of social isolation for LGBTQ youth who may already feel vulnerable because of their identities. In order to understand how this surveillance affects the behavior and identity formation of young people within these communities, it is important to examine the effects of both structural and cultural pressures.
Structural Pressure
Structural pressure refers to the ways in which society shapes an individual's behavior and identity.
If an LGBTQ person lives in a community where they are actively persecuted, they may be less likely to come out as gay or transgender because of fear of violence or other negative consequences. Similarly, if they live in a community where religion dominates public life and there is little support for queer rights, they may feel like they have no choice but to hide their true selves. As a result, this can cause them to internalize negative messages about themselves and develop low self-esteem. This can manifest itself in various ways, such as engaging in risky behaviors, difficulty forming healthy relationships, and even suicidal thoughts.
Cultural Pressure
Cultural pressure refers to the ways in which culture shapes an individual's behavior and identity. Within religious communities, there may be particular norms around sexuality and gender expression that differ from those found outside the community. This can create additional stressors for young people who do not fit into traditional expectations. If a young person is questioning their sexuality or gender identity, they may feel pressure to conform to certain expectations in order to avoid being ostracized by their peers. This can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, which can further erode their sense of self-worth.
These individuals may find themselves navigating double standards within their community, where heterosexuality and cisgender identities are celebrated while queerness and nonbinary identities are stigmatized.
Religious surveillance on LGBTQ youth has significant impacts on their social behavior and identity formation. Structural pressures, such as discrimination and lack of support, can cause young people to internalize negative messages about themselves, leading to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Cultural pressures, including pressure to conform to traditional expectations, can also have damaging effects. It is important for religious communities to recognize the importance of supporting all members, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, in order to foster positive growth and development among young people.
What is the impact of religious community surveillance on the social behavior and identity formation of LGBTQ youth?
Research has shown that religious communities often have strong opinions about sexuality and gender identities, which can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and stigma for members who identify as LGBTQ. This can create an environment where it may be challenging for young people in these communities to form their sense of self and develop healthy relationships with others. Surveillance of LGBTQ individuals within these communities can further exacerbate this issue by creating a culture of fear and judgment.