Let Me Be: Disclosure Among a Group of Black South African Homosexuals
Date
2006-10-27T08:09:25Z
Authors
Mashaba, Emeldah
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Abstract
This study sought to explore the process of disclosure among a group black South
African homosexuals. Specifically, the study investigated the factors that inhibit and/or
facilitate disclosure, how obstacles to disclosure are dealt with, as well as consequences
of disclosure. Snowballing sampling method was used to select appropriate participants.
A sample was drawn from ACTIVATE; a Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Club
from University of the Witwatersrand. The sample comprised of six male participants,
between the ages of eighteen (18) and twenty-five (25), who are living openly, either
partially or fully, as homosexuals. Data was gathered using a semi-structured interview
schedule. The face-to-face individual interviews were audio taped. The interviews were
transcribed and data was analysed using the thematic content analysis method. The
results of the study indicated that disclosure is a significant process that most
homosexuals are bound to face or at least consider. Among the factors identified as
playing a role in facilitating disclosure are self-acceptance and identification of self with
the homosexual identity. Acceptance by family and society also proved to be important
in facilitating the process of disclosure. Inability to acceptance one’s sexual orientation
and lack of social support are among the factors that tend to hamper the process of
disclosure. Difficulties faced with during the process of disclosure include rejection by
family and society which is accompanied by discrimination based on sexual orientation.
As much as disclosure brings about a sense of relief and the freedom to express one’s
sexuality, it can also bring about feelings of ambivalence. An individual has to now
reject the heterosexual orientation which is considered “normal” to pursue a homosexual
identity that corresponds with one’s feelings but is considered “immoral”. Disclosure is a
difficult process and individuals who wish to disclose often anticipate negative responses
from their next of kin and society. Subsequently, it becomes undesirable to disclose under
such circumstances. If society were more accepting towards homosexuality, homosexuals
would be encouraged to disclose their sexual orientation without the fear of being
rejected and discriminated against.
Description
Faculty of Humanities
School of Human and Community Development
0316309j
Keywords
disclosure, Black, Homosexuals, South African