Perceptions of 'coming out' among British Muslim gay men

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Jaspal, R. ORCID: 0000-0002-8463-9519 and Siraj, A., 2011. Perceptions of 'coming out' among British Muslim gay men. Psychology and Sexuality, 2 (3), pp. 183-197. ISSN 1941-9899

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1080/19419899.2010.526627

Abstract

The cultural processes of heteronormativity and compulsory heterosexuality are acutely active within Islamic societies. The present study explored perceptions of 'coming out' among a group of British Muslim gay men (BMGM), focussing upon the potential consequences for identity processes and psychological well-being. Ten BMGM of Pakistani descent were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. Interview transcripts were subjected to interpretative phenomenological analysis and informed by identity process theory. Four superordinate themes are reported, including (1) 'social representational constraints upon "coming out"'; (2) ' "coming out": a source of shame and a threat to distinctiveness'; (3) 'fear of physical violence from ingroup members'; and (4) 'foreseeing the future: "coming out" as a coping strategy'. Data suggest that BMGM face a bi-dimensional homophobia from ethno-religious ingroup members and the general population, which can render the prospect of 'coming out' threatening for identity. Theoretical and practical implications of this research are discussed.

Item Type:

Journal article

Publication Title:

Psychology and Sexuality

Creators:

Jaspal, R. and Siraj, A.

Publisher:

Taylor & Francis

Date:

September 2011

Volume:

Number: