Destiny is a cisgender woman and Aaliyah is a transgender woman. The minority stress theory would predict that Aaliyah will likely a. have poorer educational outcomes than Destiny. b. have poorer health outcomes than Destiny. c. encounter more hiring biases in employment compared to Destiny. d. have a more difficult time obtaining financial success compared to Destiny.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. have poorer health outcomes than Destiny.
Minority stress theory explains that individuals belonging to stigmatized social groups experience chronic stress due to discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion. This stress is additive to general life stress and can negatively impact mental and physical health. Transgender people, like Aaliyah, often face unique and intense forms of minority stress compared to cisgender individuals, such as Destiny. These stressors include experiences of stigma, rejection, and discrimination related to their gender identity.
Research consistently shows that transgender people suffer higher rates of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, as well as physical health disparities. These disparities result from both direct effects of minority stress and indirect effects like barriers to accessing healthcare, social support, and safe environments. Chronic exposure to discrimination and social marginalization leads to stress-related physiological problems such as cardiovascular disease and weakened immune function.
While minority stress can affect other life domains like education, employment, and financial success, the theory primarily highlights health outcomes as a critical area of impact. Poor health outcomes are a common and well-documented consequence of the cumulative stressors faced by transgender individuals. This includes difficulties in obtaining respectful and competent medical care, as well as higher exposure to violence and victimization.
In summary, minority stress theory predicts that Aaliyah, as a transgender woman, is likely to face poorer health outcomes than Destiny, a cisgender woman. This difference arises from the unique and chronic stress caused by societal stigma, discrimination, and the challenges related to gender identity, all of which significantly affect mental and physical health.