I am sure it can be agreed upon that as we have all grown up, we have realized that getting into relationships and maintaining them can be difficult and requires a lot of work to do. You have probably heard stories from your friends about how they are trying to find people to possibly date, or that their current relationship is going through a numerous amount of difficult problems, or that a long relationship has ended, or better yet, they have finally got into a meaningful relationship. These topics are easy point in discussion and can be a common occurrence for some groups of people, however, have you ever thought about these topics from the viewpoint of someone in the LGBTQ community?
As someone who knows a lot of people part of the community, I have been able to listen to what types of struggles someone faces when it comes to trying to find people to get into relationships. For starters, thinking purely on numbers, the LGBTQ+ community can face difficulties finding people to date in the first place, especially since about 7% of the United States population is a part of the LGBTQ+ community. Even though that leaves around 25 million possible people someone could find themselves dating in the LGBTQ+ community, the LGBTQ+ community holds a different type of sexualities, thus even people in the community would not find themselves attracted to someone else in the community. This can be especially difficult for those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian, who typically have to be in relationships with those in the LGBTQ+ community.
From talking with my sibling on the matter, they have told me that it is not as difficult as it may seem. Although sometimes it may be difficult to stumble upon people who are in the LGBTQ+ community that are looking to get into relationships, there are plenty of chances to get into groups that have lots of people who are in the LGBTQ+ community that are together to do a variety of activities such as going to parades or for support groups, which can lead to bettering relationships and sometimes develop into being in relationships. There are also dating apps that are specifically designed for those who are in the LGBTQ+ community who are looking to find deep and meaningful relationships with each other. This especially helps those who are find it more difficult into finding people to get into relationships are more anxious about getting into dating.
In conclusion, establishing relationships within the LGBTQ+ community poses a unique problem that differ from those experienced by the straight majority population. With a limited dating pool and the extra complication of different sexual orientations within the community, finding appropriate partners may be difficult for many people. Opportunities for meaningful connections and relationships can be found through social engagement, support networks, and specialized dating platforms. Recognizing and addressing these particular obstacles is critical to ensure inclusion and support for all those seeking love and friendship in the LGBTQ+ community.
I find this topic extremely interesting as it never really crossed my mind that since the LGBTQ+ is smaller population there could be difficulty finding relationships. I think with any relationship you tend to find good connections in groups which you can relate to and bond. I find it interesting how your brother explains that those he surrounds himself for parades and support groups, tend to actually lead him to relationships.
I also know many people in the LGBTQ+ community, and they have also expressed the struggles that often come with dating. Many of them have said that it’s often difficult because some people are more comfortable than others to express their sexuality. This may be because of fear of judgement from friends, family, coworkers, etc. That’s why it is so important to foster a sense of support for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community so that they can be themselves.