Gender Identity Microaggressions - Essay Example

In most cases, there are sexual stereotypes said about the LGBTQ that one learns to be untrue through close relationships and interactions. Therefore, the formation of the family aimed at exposing the members to different sexual orientations in, a more or less, observational technique to understand what sexuality entails. In this case, the family assists in understanding lesbianism and heterosexuals in a detailed manner. The family is not only a study association but also a social bond enhanced by sexual diversity, indifference, and respect. For this reason, the actual meaning of the relationship is immeasurable in both neither qualitative nor quantitative terms. However, the solidarity and cohesion promoted by the family are unpredictable. The family is an opportunity to understand sexual orientation from a holistic perspective by examining the factors that influence sexuality, social perception, and the challenges experienced by LGBTQ individuals.

The most common type of gender identity microaggressions in an institution is the disapproval of the LGBTQ experience where these individuals receive awkward and condemned treatment. Specifically, disapproval occurs either consciously or unintentionally. However, both cases cause harm to the victim (Nadal, 91). Additionally, there is a general perception of the LGBTQs as abnormal for their non-conforming sexual orientation. Specifically, heterosexual individuals consider LGBTQ persons as overly sexual and sexually deviant (Nadal, 93). Other forms of microaggressions include the denial of the reality of transphobia, physical threat and harassment, and denial of bodily privacy among others (Nadal, 96).

Notably, institutions such as schools and the workplace exhibit instances of gender identity microaggressions. Specifically, the most common types of discrimination occur among friends, family members, or even LGBT people (Nadal, 2013). The consequence of microaggressions includes victimization, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, and depression among other well-being effects. For this reason, gender identity discrimination from LGBT people is equally harmful to that from heterosexual individuals. Notably, LGBT expects their counterparts to show compassion since they understand the challenges associated with their sexual orientation. Therefore, discrimination expressed by these groups sends a message that a particular orientation within the LGBT community is more justifiable or socially upright than the other (Nadal, 104). Consequently, this leads to a sense of rejection and pioneers negative feelings of suicide, depression, and substance abuse.

Transgender or gender-nonconforming communities experience various challenges because of their intergroup culture. For example, in healthcare, this population is vulnerable as there is a lack of culturally competent healthcare providers to offer adequate quality services. The most fundamental strategies for increasing cultural competence while working with this population include talking, gawking, and collecting data to aid in the understanding of their challenges and needs (Hanssmann, Morrison, and Russian, 7-9). Specifically, understanding the challenges and the specific needs is imperative. Notably, this is achievable through open communication and observation. When there is adequate information about the group, it is easy to work with them and provide services that satisfy their needs.