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The Impact of Stereotypical Media Portrayals on the Urban LGBTQ+ Youth: A Qualitative Study of their Lived Experiences


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1 Department of Psychology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
     

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In modern society, stereotyping against the LGBTQ+ community is one of the common issues. Due to the perceived notions, socially expected norms of behaviour and expectations created for all genders and sexualities, many stereotypes concerning the LGBTQ+ community are predominantly negative. With the changing context, a deepened approach is needed to educate people about distinct genders and social norms wherein they don't regard LGBTQ+ as transgressors. We aim to investigate such preconceived negative notions and understand how stereotypical images affect youth affiliated with the LGBTQ+ community. The study is designed qualitatively with (N=74) urban LGBTQ+ young adults belonging to the age bracket of 19-25 years. Based on the Inclusion criteria, Gays (12.16%), Bisexuals (66.21%), Lesbians (5.40%), Pansexuals (5.40%) and Others (10.81%) consented to participate in the study. The sample was selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The data was obtained using an open-ended questionnaire circulated via Google forms. The questionnaire was analyzed using thematic analysis. Based on the analysis of the sample's lived experiences, an exhibited stereotypical image was portrayed by mass media. Consequently, primary themes affecting these individuals were based on 'personal facets' (29.72%), 'Health facets'(22.97%) and 'miscellaneous' (17.56%). The results depict that LGBTQ+ youth conceal theirsexual orientation due to fear and shame associated with coming out and to protect their well-being in society. Gender stereotypes are used as a means to make estimations of others' sexual identities wherein mass media has played a profound role in perpetuating such discriminating behaviours. Therefore, a universalist framework should be built with coalitions of diverse Indian communities to ensure safety for all.

Keywords

LGBTQ+ community, stereotypes, mass media, mental health, stigma
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  • The Impact of Stereotypical Media Portrayals on the Urban LGBTQ+ Youth: A Qualitative Study of their Lived Experiences

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Authors

Poonam Phogat
Department of Psychology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
Vasundhra Verma
Department of Psychology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India

Abstract


In modern society, stereotyping against the LGBTQ+ community is one of the common issues. Due to the perceived notions, socially expected norms of behaviour and expectations created for all genders and sexualities, many stereotypes concerning the LGBTQ+ community are predominantly negative. With the changing context, a deepened approach is needed to educate people about distinct genders and social norms wherein they don't regard LGBTQ+ as transgressors. We aim to investigate such preconceived negative notions and understand how stereotypical images affect youth affiliated with the LGBTQ+ community. The study is designed qualitatively with (N=74) urban LGBTQ+ young adults belonging to the age bracket of 19-25 years. Based on the Inclusion criteria, Gays (12.16%), Bisexuals (66.21%), Lesbians (5.40%), Pansexuals (5.40%) and Others (10.81%) consented to participate in the study. The sample was selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The data was obtained using an open-ended questionnaire circulated via Google forms. The questionnaire was analyzed using thematic analysis. Based on the analysis of the sample's lived experiences, an exhibited stereotypical image was portrayed by mass media. Consequently, primary themes affecting these individuals were based on 'personal facets' (29.72%), 'Health facets'(22.97%) and 'miscellaneous' (17.56%). The results depict that LGBTQ+ youth conceal theirsexual orientation due to fear and shame associated with coming out and to protect their well-being in society. Gender stereotypes are used as a means to make estimations of others' sexual identities wherein mass media has played a profound role in perpetuating such discriminating behaviours. Therefore, a universalist framework should be built with coalitions of diverse Indian communities to ensure safety for all.

Keywords


LGBTQ+ community, stereotypes, mass media, mental health, stigma

References