Barbie in the Box: A Phenomenological Study on Identity Closeting of Male Homosexuals

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

According to Butler (1991), the process of coming out does not free gay people from oppression. Rejected LGBT youths generally do not learn how to build a relationship with peers or families (Cole 2007). In addition, LGBT youths are both verbally and physically abused by parents (“Today's Gay Youth", n.d.). Previous research in this field has focused on "coming out" of closeted gays and their coping mechanisms. A significant number of studies confirmed family plays a big part in the identity development of LGBT youths (Cass, 1979 as cited in Morrow, 2004). In relation to this, the researcher investigated the lived experiences of homosexual men while hiding their identities from their families to add to the growing number of literatures to this prevalent phenomenon.

METHODS

In this qualitative phenomenological approach, in-depth interview was used to gather data. Seven homosexual men were chosen as the participants using purposive sampling technique. A letter of consent was given to the participants and their permission was also sought for the recording of the interview. Then, each participant was interviewed personally; the interview was purely a conversational style which allowed the researcher to gather precise details in depth from the participants. Interviews were then transcribed, and the transcripts were given back to the participants for validity. Lastly, coding was done and data were thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that male homosexuals hide their true gender orientation from their family because of the fear of being neglected. It was also found out that the participants have similar strategies in hiding their true identity form their family. The themes that emerged are 1) having two or more social media accounts, 2) dress codes, 3) having male friends, and 4) using a normal male-like voice at home. Also revealed from the study, the participants feel pain whenever they are neglected, criticized and unsupported by their own families.

DISCUSSIONS

Male homosexuals use varied and similar strategies to keep their true identities from their families. They try to stay in the closet because of fear of not being accepted by their loved ones. A broader point of view from the participants demonstrate the need for acceptance and understanding from their own family members so they would not hide their being homosexuals. Generally, closeting brings negative experiences to male homosexuals.