A Study on Self and Identity Development among Heterosexual Male-female and LGBT Adults

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Debangana Bhattacharya and Rita Karmakar (Amity Institute of Psychology and Allied Sciences, Amity University Kolkata, West Bengal)

Stereotyping, gender discrimination, and oppression are still exists in this society. Lesbians, gay, bisexuals and transgender people are a stigmatized group that goes through several trouble while growing up in a heterosexual society mainly regarding the identification of their real identity. In this context, this study investigated the self-perception (Self-esteem & Self-concept) and Social identity among Mainstream heterosexual male and female (N=70) and LGBT (N= 40) adults. This study aims to analyze the Self-esteem, Self-concept and Social identity among heterosexual and LGBT adults. Self-esteem, self-concept and social identity were measured by using three different scales. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, The Personal Self-concept Questionnaire (PSQ) and the Multi Group Ethnic Identity Measures (MEIM) were administered to serve the purpose of the study. The result reveals a significant mean difference among mainstream heterosexual and LGBT adults in self-esteem, self-fulfillment, autonomy and honesty. Self-esteem is found to be low in LGBT adults in comparison to heterosexual adults. In relation to self-perception, identity affirmation also differs significantly among mainstream and LGBT adults and is also found to be low in LGBT adults. These factors may have an influence on the identification of their sexual-identity and also influence their attitude toward homosexuality. Specially in this changing time there is not much that we know about the LGBT individuals, there is a need of more research done on this community. No matter what the sexual identity of the individual it needs to be respected and accepted for more inclusive society.