Issues of Identity Development Among Asian‐American Lesbians and Gay Men

Abstract

This study examined the factors that affect an Asian‐American individual's choice of identification with Asian‐American and lesbian or gay identity. Nineteen Asian‐American lesbians and 16 Asian‐American gay men belonging to Asian‐American lesbian or gay organizations answered survey questionnaires. Results indicated that most of the respondents identified more strongly with their lesbian or gay identities than with their Asian‐American identities; however, most indicated that acknowledgment of both aspects of identity was preferred. Other situational factors, including disclosure of lesbian or gay identity to family and to the Asian‐American community, as well as discrimination because of sexual orientation, race, and gender, were examined in regard to identity development.