Intersectionality of religion/spirituality and sexual and gender identity.

Abstract

This article is a section introduction that is dedicated to the continued exploration and understanding of the realities that are encountered by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals by examining the point of contact between religion/spirituality (R/S) and sexual and gender identities. The articles chosen to be presented here provide a range of topics and are somewhat representative of the wider LGBTQ and psychology of religion and spirituality literature. This section is not meant to be an exhaustive compilation; instead it is intended to broach the topic of intersectionality and expand on the conversation between 2 fields of research as well as between therapist and client. In terms of future research, it is the hope of this author that the inclusion of this section will prompt more cross-disciplinary studies to try to understand the role of R/S within the lives of LGBTQ people. For therapists working with LGBTQ individuals, the understanding of the intersectionality of these 2 identities, including both positive and negative aspects, can lead to awareness of areas for therapeutic inquiry as well as R/S-inclusive treatment interventions.

Cultural Humility with Religious and Spiritually Diverse Women of Color Clients: A Psychometric Analysis

“…Additionally, the current sample was predominantly heterosexual. Perceived therapist cultural humility may be particularly salient for sexual minority women of color, given the complex dynamics that can exist for sexual minority individuals and R/S communities (Toscano, 2017). Accordingly, future research could examine CHS scores among these groups of women.…”

Achieving Sustainable Health Equity Locally After the COVID-19 Emergency Response

“…Six virtual focus groups were conducted with organizational partners working closely with LGBTQ+ communities on health-related issues. These data collection methods acknowledge intersectionality of race, 5,6 ethnicity, 7,8 religion, 9 and ability 10 within the LGBTQ+ experience and the overlapping forms of discrimination and marginalization that contribute to their unique health experiences and challenges. 11 A consensus-building workshop will be held with members of the CWG and project participants to collectively analyze data and findings into actionable recommendations for an LGBTQ+ Health Equity Report.…”

“…Six virtual focus groups were conducted with organizational partners working closely with LGBTQ+ communities on health-related issues. These data collection methods acknowledge intersectionality of race,5,6 ethnicity,7,8 religion,9 and ability10 within the LGBTQ+ experience and the overlapping forms of discrimination and marginalization that contribute to their unique health experiences and challenges 11…”

Intersectionality and Identity Configurations: A Qualitative Study Exploring Sexual Identity Development Among Emerging Adults Within the United States

“…The intersection of sexual and religious identities has also been a growing focus of study related to LGBTQ+ mental health (Toscano, 2017). Evidence suggests that LGBTQ+ individuals are less likely to be religious compared to heterosexual individuals in the United States (Newport, 2014), which could be partially attributed to marginalization and discrimination sexual minorities have experienced in many religious contexts (Super & Jacobson, 2011).…”