Abstract
This study offers a definition, analytical theorisation and discussion with regards to the process of coming out. Coming out is perceived as the emotional response associated with the social stigmatisation of homosexuality. It constitutes a specific kind of sexual identity formation consisting of certain stages and involving specific feelings. In the case of coming out, exploring and accepting oneself may become a long, lonely and sometimes painful journey, which could come to conflict with certain social expectations concerning sexuality. This thesis suggests that this emotional response to stigmatisation may entail feelings such as: uncertainty, curiosity, confusion, fear, insecurity, shame, dissatisfaction and, to a certain extent, inner imbalance and conflict. The stages of coming out are related to feelings of being different, acknowledgement of one???s homosexuality, disclosure to others, self acceptance, contact with LGB and perceiving sexuality as an important component of one???s identity. The main aim of this research is to provide an outlook for psychotherapists who work with people who go through the process of coming out, in order to familiarise themselves with this specific process and provide the appropriate support to their clients. Furthermore, a particular emphasis is put on social stigma and social restrictions since these are the areas directly related to the process of coming out and psychotherapists need to be aware of such social phenomena.
Original language | English |
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Place of Publication | Cambridge, UK |
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Publication status | Published - Sept 2008 |
Keywords
- coming out, process, stages, feelings, LGBT