The impact of “coming out†on the psychological wellbeing of British Pakistanis with same-sex attraction

Abstract

Background: The relationship between individuals with same-sex attraction (SSA) and poor psychological wellbeing is well-known. Whilst acceptance of sexual identity is assumed to promote psychological functioning, this may be more difficult amongst BAME populations for whom SSA is culturally taboo and highly stigmatised. This study examines British Pakistanis reporting SSA and its impact on psychological wellbeing and quality of life. Methods: A qualitative, mixed-modal, design was employed using purposive and snowball sampling to recruit from this “hidden†population. Twenty British Pakistanis with SSA (10 men, 10 women) aged between 18-43, from London, Midlands, and Scotland participated via online and personal interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Respondents largely reported being “closeted†due to fears of social ostracisation, exposure, and family rejection. Maintaining familial social support was paramount and a reason for hiding their/not engaging in same-sex behaviour (SSB). Despite pressures and expectations of heterosexual marriage, more “lesbians†stated being in monogamous gay relationships, whilst “gay†men reported more fleeting same-sex encounters. Psychological dissonance was clear with respondents dissociating identity from behaviour and reporting isolation, suicide ideation, self-harm, feeling trapped, and self-hatred. Discussion: As respondents felt a “gay lifestyle/identity†did not accord with their ethno-cultural background, they felt unable/unwilling to access referral services. This has implications in psychological interventions based on acknowledgement and acceptance of behaviour/identity. The social support structures in collectivist cultures have implications for psychologists in managing mental health needs of BAME LGBT and being mindful of the patients own self-concept and internalisation of their behaviour.