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Outness and relationship satisfaction in same-gender couples.
Naomi B Knoble1, Deanna Linville
1Couples and Family Therapy Program, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403-5251, USA. nbknoble@gmail.com
Journal of Marital and Family Therapy
|April 20, 2012
Summary
For gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals, self-disclosure of sexual orientation (outness) is a key factor in relationship satisfaction. Outness acts as a resilience strategy, influencing but not solely determining satisfaction in same-gender relationships.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Relationship Science
Background:
- Self-disclosure of sexual orientation, or outness, is central to gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) individuals' experiences.
- Limited research exists on the specific impact of outness on same-gender relationship satisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the complex interplay between outness and relationship satisfaction in same-gender couples.
- To understand how navigating a stigmatized identity in a homophobic society affects GLB relationships.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews with 15 same-gender couples.
- Thematic analysis to identify key characteristics and influences of outness.
Main Results:
- Outness is characterized as a developmental skill, an expression of identity, and a resilience strategy against discrimination and gay-related stress.
- The process of coupling influences an individual's outness.
- Outness significantly influences, but does not solely determine, same-gender relationship satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Outness is a multifaceted aspect of GLB identity that impacts relationship satisfaction.
- Clinical practice should consider the role of outness in supporting GLB relationships.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the determinants of relationship satisfaction in GLB individuals.
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