After Sexual Identity Disclosure: An Ecological Perceptive of LGB Young Adults
A plethora of research exists concerning determinants prior or during the sexual identity disclosure process; yet, information is limited concerning internal and external experiences after one discloses his or her sexual identity to their social support system. Through the lenses of the Social Ecological Model, the purpose of this study was to further understand the current lived experiences of persons in post-sexual identity disclosure.
Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 15 lesbian, gay, and bisexual young adults. Sample size was determined by thematic saturation. A semiotic phenomenological procedure was used for analyzing the data.
Results
Based on the reported experiences after sexual identity disclosure among participants, 7 themes were identified. Themes entailed stereotypical perceptions of sexual identity, improvement in mental health, relationship estrangement, development of new relationships, social support, non-acceptance of sexual orientation, and minority stress.
Conclusions
Through various theories and models, this study provide recommendations for stakeholders invested in the health of lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals.
Keywords: bisexual; coming-out; gay; lesbian; sexual identity disclosure
Document Type: Research Article
Publication date: 01 July 2018
The American Journal of Health Behavior seeks to improve the quality of life through multidisciplinary health efforts in fostering a better understanding of the multidimensional nature of both individuals and social systems as they relate to health behaviors.
The Journal aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of personal attributes, personality characteristics, behavior patterns, social structure, and processes on health maintenance, health restoration, and health improvement; to disseminate knowledge of holistic, multidisciplinary approaches to designing and implementing effective health programs; and to showcase health behavior analysis skills that have been proven to affect health improvement and recovery.
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