New Study: Everyday Stigma Harmful to LGBT Well-Being

An interesting study co-signs that stigma and social inequality can be harmful to the health of LGBT people:

The study, “We’d Be Free”: Narratives of Life Without Homophobia, Racism, or Sexism, was published in Sexuality Research and Social Policy.  The study examined the effects of exposure to everyday stigma -- consistent, ongoing experiences of inequality. Subjects reported estrangement from families, failure to complete schooling, and isolation in the workplace. “Imagine living life anticipating exclusion from your friends, family and professional circles simply because of who you are and who you love – that resulting stress takes a toll on one’s life and health,” said co-author Dr. Ilan Meyer.

Black and Latino LGB participants, in particular, characterized homophobia, racism and sexism as a source of stress that led to missed life opportunities, including a quality education and higher levels of self-confidence. “For members of minority groups, day-to-day life experiences that may seem minor to others can and do have significant and lasting impact on one’s well-being,” said Dr. Meyer. “The idea that simply walking out your door will expose you to societal rejection and stigma creates a climate of stress that can lead to detrimental, long-term consequences.”

The research also found that, paradoxically, sexual minorities sometimes view stigma as having enhanced their lives and as having a defining impact on their identity. For example, LGB individuals who were forced to leave their hometowns found a more accepting community and new professional and personal opportunities in big cities that might not otherwise have been available to them.

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