The Phenomenology of Disclosure among Filipino Male Gays

Abstract

Disclosing one's homosexuality in a heterosexual-dominated community will always be a continuous decision Filipino gay men need to deal with. The choice may not be as easy due to the perceived and actual stigma, judgment, or misconceptions on knowledge of being gay may arise that could hinder their disclosure phase. This research is aimed at exploring the lived experiences of Filipino gay men in the coming-out phase. This phenomenological study interviewed 12 self-identified gays who disclosed their homosexuality to at least one of his/her immediate environments - friends and family members. The recruitment process is through snowball sampling. Findings of the study show that in disclosing their gay identities there is a connection between their positive and negative experiences, disclosure dilemmas, and their reason to finally come out of the closet. The phase is considered a continuous process of choosing and self-expressing one's homosexuality. Lastly, this study emphasized the interconnections of the different aspects of individuality that led to the development of their chosen identity.