Many boys and young men who are attracted to their own gender find themselves in a state of conflict, confusion, isolation shame and fear. They face obstacles such as homophobia, religion, cultural and familial ideals and societal demands to be masculine as they grow up. They often experience negativity from within and externally which in some cases can lead to tragedy. There have been several theoretical models put forward to explore the process of discovery and coming out which acknowledge different transitions during the process, against “a backdrop of stigma.” In his research, Leone aimed to promote greater understanding of individuals’ lived experiences whilst going through the process of coming out; a long series of events, not a single defining moment.
Leone uses a dialogic taken from descriptions by 7 participants to capture the essence of the experience of self-discovery and coming out as a gay man. Constituent parts most commonly reported were used to create a 10 part framework of existential phenomena in coming out; awareness, acknowledging difference, sexual exploration, denial, coping, acceptance, new exploration, integration and reflection. Through his own experience and the participants’ narratives, Leone witnessed transition from withdrawn and negative to a positive, sociable and confident mind set, eventually integrating their gay selves as just part not all of their whole identity.
Leone notes that developing a gay sexual orientation is incredibly stressful. The gay man strives to connect with likeminded people and explore whilst maintaining heteronormative pretences. Gay and lesbian people have been shown to represent one of the most stressed groups in society who need support and compassion from clinicians, family and society at large. The 10 part framework, as a tangible tool, would provide an excellent basis for young adolescents to acknowledge the normality of their experiences and will give clinicians further insight into a process that has often been misconstrued.
Leone concludes, “An important clinical implication of this research is that the way in which it sheds light on the process of discovering oneself and exploring one’s sexuality as a means to acknowledge one’s sexual orientation points especially to the fact that this process can involve a complex, and often tumultuous, series of events that require time, patience, and support before coming to a resolution of some kind.”
