Sexual and Gender Minority College Students' Perceptions of Sexuality Blindfolding

Sexuality blindfolding is a diversity philosophy in which discussions and recognition of LGBTQ identities are minimized with aims of reducing intergroup tension. To add to prior evidence showing the unintended harms of difference-evading diversity philosophies, the present research documented LGBTQ college students' perceptions of sexuality blindfolding in undergraduate academic settings. Using thematic analysis on the qualitative entries of 45 LGBTQ college students in the U.S., the present research documented high disapproval of sexuality blindfolding, with students expressing that such approach a) causes identity invisibility and damage, b) signals that LGBTQ persons are deviant, and c) supports ignorance and maintains bias against LGBTQ people. Within these three major themes, additional subthemes indicate the perceived dangers of sexuality blindfolding for LGBTQ equality pursuits, LGBTQ student belonging, and academic success. Our inquiry also provided descriptive data on the frequency of participants' personal experiences with sexuality blindfolding (e.g., encountered situations where LGBTQ identities were minimized, dismissed, or avoided when brought up). Overall, the study highlights sexuality blindfolding as having negative consequences for societal progress and LGBTQ students' identity development, while contributing to broader discussions on diversity philosophies and state-level education policies that take an identity-conscious or difference-evading approach to diversity.