Out of the Closet, Not Yet Out of the House: Gay Men’s Experiences of Homonegativity and Internalized Homonegativity

Abstract

This paper explores how Australian gay men experience gender and sexuality in relation to heteronormative gender norms, particularly masculinity. A sample of 32 gay men aged 22–72 participated in an online interview using videoconferencing software, focusing on masculinity and homosexuality. Thematic analysis revealed that gay men encounter gender and sexuality-related challenges throughout their socioecological environment, including social regulation, homophobic discrimination/harassment, and anti-effeminacy prejudice. These experiences often lead to feelings of self-loathing, shame, internalized homonegativity, and isolation. By examining interactions across different levels of the socioecological environment, future research and practice can enhance understanding of these social phenomena and develop strategies to alleviate such challenges.