Walking the tightrope : LGBTIQ individuals’ experiences of perceived support received whilst coming out

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of support received among individuals who identify as gay, lesbian and bisexual, whilst coming out. Six participants contributed to this study by sharing their experiences of received support within the Maltese context. Data acquired through semi-structured, in-depth interviews was analysed through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Thus, data was coded and clustered, and emergent themes were identified. The extracted themes include: emotional responses characterising the coming out process, participants’ perceptions of supportive factors in their contexts, hindering factors during the coming out process; the need for safety during coming out; the effects of coming out on significant others; and positive outcomes following their coming out experiences. One major implication of the study outlines participants’ need for belonging within a predominantly heteronormative community. Recommendations for future research, policy and counselling practice are presented.