When it doesn’t get better: A qualitative study of eating disorders, sexual identity, and coming out in sexual minority men

• DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2022.2118922
• Publication Date: 2022-09-13T15:20:51Z
• Authors: Zachary W. Rawlings; Zachary A. Soulliard; Danielle Knafo
• Keywords: Minority Stress; Closet; Sexual identity; Mainstream; Objectification

Introduction: This study explores the relationship between sexual identity, coming out, and eating disorders to more fully understand high rates of body dissatisfaction among minority men. Method: A sample 15 men (14 gay, one queer) with a diagnosed disorder completed qualitative interviews about their experiences related out process, disorder. Results: Qualitative data analysis based on grounded theory strategies revealed that majority participants identified process as playing notable role in After unique stressors from within community Participants’ responses were categorized into four theoretical constructs: (1) The Mental Health Toll Closet, (2) Out (3) Assimilating Gay Community, (4) Dating Sex. findings are contextualized three relevant theories: stress theory, intraminority gay objectification theory. Conclusion: found well navigating mainstream community, critical understanding disparities