This article discusses the harmful effects of heteronormative beliefs on LGBTQ individuals, particularly youth. It highlights the rise of anti-LGBTQ legislation and rhetoric, emphasizing how these policies contribute to a culture of exclusion and reinforce negative stereotypes. The author draws on their experience as an LGBTQ-affirming therapist to illustrate the long-term struggles with self-acceptance and mental health challenges faced by individuals who grow up in a heteronormative society. It calls for intentional efforts to normalize LGBTQ identities and create a more inclusive world.
Heteronormative beliefs erase LGBTQ identities, causing shame and long-term struggles with self-acceptance.In recent years, we have witnessed a troubling rise in anti- LGBTQ legislation and political rhetoric aimed at restricting the rights and visibility of LGBTQ individuals.
As an LGBTQ-affirming therapist, I sit with clients daily who tell me what it was like growing up and having to hide aspects of themselves. Much of my work is helping them to externalize the harmfulThe messages we internalize about the world and ourselves—our “messages from the playground”—shape our belief system, and it is our belief system that controls the way we operate our lives and influences how we perceive the world around us.
LGBTQ+ Rights Heteronormativity LGBTQ Youth Mental Health Inclusion
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