Perceived parental reactions to coming out, attachment, and coping in Ga-Sekororo, Limpopo, South Africa : a qualitative study

Abstract

The global discourse surrounding sexual orientation remains a sensitive topic, particularly presenting challenges for sexual minority youth (SMY) when navigating the process of disclosure. Coming out to family, particularly parents, is especially difficult. While the disclosure process may yield both rejection and adversities, it can concurrently offer a liberating opportunity for individuals to authentically embrace their identity. Nevertheless, parental rejection can engender mental health problems and foster maladaptive coping mechanisms among sexual minority individuals. Conversely, those encountering parental acceptance and support tend to exhibit enhanced mental well-being and employ more adaptive coping strategies. A qualitative study was carried out in Ga-Sekororo, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study specifically centered on cisgender females identifying as lesbians. Data collection employed semi-structured interviews, with participants selected through snowball sampling method. The data collected was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), with interviews conducted in Sepedi and subsequently translated into English. The findings indicated that parental attitudes towards lesbians can be influenced by factors such as culture and religion. Moreover, the findings also indicated that lesbians employ different strategies to deal with coming out and parental reactions. The research highlights the significance of educational initiatives targeting parents, such programs may improve parental reactions and provide support during the coming out process for lesbians and other sexual minorities.