Coming Out as Lesbian, Gay, or Bisexual: The Lasting Impact of Initial Disclosure Experiences

TLDR

Previous research shows that coming out can benefit LGB individuals but also carries significant risks due to its stigmatized status. This study examines the coming‑out process and the role of autonomy support in identity integration and well‑being. The authors surveyed 108 LGB participants about their initial disclosure experiences to the first person, mother, father, and best friend. Negative reactions to coming out were associated with higher depression and lower self‑esteem, and autonomy need satisfaction after disclosure mediated the effect of negative reactions on well‑being.

Abstract

Though previous research indicates that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals may benefit from disclosing their sexual identity, or coming out, doing so also carries with it significant risks due to its stigmatized status. LGB individuals (N = 108) were surveyed regarding their initial experiences coming out, including the first person to whom they disclosed, their mother, father, and best friend. Results indicated that negative reactions to disclosure were associated with higher depression and lower self-esteem, whereas positive reactions did not explain additional variance in well-being. Autonomy need satisfaction following disclosure mediated the relation between negative reactions and lower well-being. Discussion focuses on the coming out process and the importance of autonomy support in identity integration and well-being.