The impact of negative reactions to someone's sexual orientation and gender identity

When a person identifies with being gay, lesbian, transgender, queer/questioning they can be treated unfairly and unkindly by other people. This may be because:

• They do not like people with a different sexuality from themselves

• They do not understand

• They have religious beliefs that they use to justify their thoughts

• They fear a social stigma from others who may not want to be friends with them if they were seen to be supporting people of a different sexual orientation.

A minority of people in society find it difficult to accept others who are different from them and this can lead to the following:

Homophobia

This is when a person treats another person who is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender unfairly because of that person's sexual orientation.

Hate Crime

This is the action people take to targeted a person or group of people and physically or emotionally abuse them because, in this instance, of their sexual orientation.

Discrimination

This is the action taken to treat a person differently because of their gender or sexual orientation.

Bigotry

This is when a person faces intolerance and verbal abuse from another person; in this case, based on their gender or sexual orientation.

Bullying

This is when a person, persistently and over a period of time, is mean, humiliates and embarrasses a person in front of others because of the perceived differences, in this case differences in sexual orientation.

Rejection

Family and/or friends may not be able to accept that a member of their family or friendship group who find it hard to accept people for who they are.

How does this treatment impact a young person's well-being?

• Stress and Anxiety: Young people may feel confused about revealing their sexuality, causing stress and anxiety as they struggle to live authentically.

• Discrimination: Facing discrimination at school, work, or socially can make them feel vulnerable and isolated, impacting their well-being.

• Low Self-Esteem: Fear of not being accepted by friends, colleagues, or family can lead to low self-esteem and lack of confidence.

• Fear of Attack: Fear of verbal or physical abuse from those who do not accept them can make young people feel isolated and fearful.

• Physical Harm: Hate crimes or bullying can result in injuries requiring medical treatment or hospitalization.

• Mental Health Issues: Stress, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression can arise from mistreatment, negatively affecting their health.

• Social Isolation: Young people may isolate themselves to avoid issues or be socially isolated by others, impacting their well-being.

• Substance Abuse: To cope with discrimination and prejudice, some may turn to drugs or alcohol, potentially leading to addiction.

Understanding these challenges is crucial in providing support and creating a more inclusive environment for all young people.

QUESTIONS YOU COULD BE ASKED ON THIS

Explain two negative effects of sexual orientation on the well being of a young person. (4marks)

One negative effect is stress and anxiety. They might worry about not being accepted by friends or family, which can make them feel very anxious and stressed. (2 marks)

Another is discrimination and bullying. If they face unfair treatment or bullying because of their sexuality, it can make them feel isolated and hurt their self-esteem. (2 marks)

Discuss the negative effects of sexual orientation and gender identity on the wellbeing of a young person. (6marks)

One negative effect is confusion and stress. They might feel unsure about how to tell others about their sexuality or gender identity, which can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. (2 marks)

Another negative effect is feeling isolated due to discrimination. If they face unfair treatment or bullying because of their sexuality or gender identity, it can make them feel alone and make them feel depressed. (2 marks)

Also, the fear of being verbally or physically abused can make them feel unsafe. This fear can cause them to avoid social activities and isolate themselves, which affects their mental health. (2 marks)

You should also read:

What is gender Identity?

What is Sexual Orientation?

Understanding sexual orientation: The impact on a person’s self-confidence