Coming-out as a gay man in Egypt: a cultural perspective.

SOCIAL media; SEXISM; SEXUAL orientation; FAMILY conflict; GAY men; SEXUAL orientation identity; CULTURE; ISLAM; SOCIAL norms; THEMATIC analysis; MUSLIMS; SOCIAL status; RACE; HUMAN rights; ARABS; CONCEPTUAL structures; SEARCH engines; COMING out (Sexual orientation); INTERPERSONAL relations; TWITTER (Web resource); SOCIAL support; SOCIAL stigma

This study examined the process of coming-out of selected Egyptian gay men using an interactionist sexual identity development model that described this process as a way of creating an identity through interactions with others, rather than independently discovering one's essence. Thematic analysis of these individuals' personal accounts of disclosing sexual identity via social media corroborated this sexual identity development model. Moreover, thematic analysis added cultural depth to this model by highlighting the role of collectivistic values, such as conformity to societal expectations and fear of disrupting family harmony, in creating experiences of regret and selectivity after disclosing sexual identity. Clinical recommendations for mental health professionals who help gay clients navigate the process of coming-out in a collectivistic cultural context are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Psychology & Sexuality is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)