Research Participant

The focus of this qualitative phenomenological study is to examine the effects of heteronormative hegemony of sexual expectations and on gay men’s identity development. A healthy gay identity is characterized by the ability to accept oneself as a gay man, to believe that one’s sexual existence is normal, and to feel able to express oneself freely within society without imposed limitations. This study seeks to explore how gay men experience and make meaning of heteronormative hegemony in relation to their ability to express their sexual selves and develop a healthy sense of identity within society. This study explores how gay men born between 1965 and 1980 experienced sexual identity development during a period of significant sociocultural change, including the declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, the emergence of HIV/AIDS, and increasing LGBTQ+ visibility and rights. Who Can Participate? You may be eligible if you: • Self-identify as a gay man • Were born between 1965 and 1980 • Are fluent in English • Are willing to discuss personal experiences related to sexual identity and social norms What Participation Involves • One confidential interview (60–90 minutes) • Interview format and location will be mutually agreed upon Confidentiality Participation is voluntary. All information shared will be kept strictly confidential. You may withdraw from the study at any time without consequence.