Coming out in the workplace: Stigma and boundary management for homosexual men

Abstract

Disclosing their sexuality is an experience that is unique to homosexuals. At times disclosure can be a difficult decision, including disclosing in the workplace. This study explores how gay men manage the privacy boundaries of their sexual orientation in the workplace. The core of this study is the dialectical tension of disclosing or concealing their sexuality. Stigma, coming out and Communication Privacy Management Theory provided the framework for this study. Interviews with gay men were conducted and then analyzed using the Grounded Theory. The social phenomenon of coming out in the workplace for gay men is explored in this study.

Date of Award	2007
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Sherry Holladay (Supervisor)