Barriers to Communicating Sexual Orientation Identity at Work

Abstract

Previous research emphasizes the benefits associated with having open gay and lesbian employees. However, many gay and lesbian employees still remain in the closet. This project examines barriers preventing gay and lesbian individuals from coming out at work. Four lesbian women and three gay men in the early stages of their careers were interviewed about their experiences of being closeted at work. Analysis reveals four barriers preventing gay and lesbian individuals from coming out at work and explores how these barriers are reinforced by informal organizational communication. Theoretical and practical implications for organizational communication research are discussed, and recommendations for future research are presented.

Date of Award	2015
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Matthew J. Gill (Supervisor)