| Description |
The purpose of this study was to discover and describe the process used by lesbian nurses to make decisions about disclosing their sexual orientation in the work arena. A descriptive, exploratory design, which incorporated grounded theory methods, was used to carry out data collection and analysis. Interviews with 20 lesbian nurses were the primary data source. Data were collected over a 7-month period through a demographic questionnaire and one face-to-face interview with each participant. Issues around the lesbian nurse's experience with self-disclosure and potential consequences were addressed, as well as factors that make self-disclosure in the work environment safe. Also addressed were issues of nondisclosure and its consequences for lesbian nurses. The data analysis confirmed the basic social process of personal risking. Personal risking has two-phases: (a) anticipatory and (b) interactional. Four interactional stances used by lesbian nurses were identified, including active and passive disclosure, and active and passive nondisclosure. Four conditions influenced the disclosure process. Conditions were identified as: (a) relevancy, (b) the health care context, (c) personal attributes of the lesbian nurse, and (d) homophobia. The findings of this study are consistent with previous studies exploring lesbian self-disclosure in other settings. The process and consequences of self-disclosure suggest that nursing should look at the issue of lesbianism, not only in relationship to clients but nurses. The consequences experienced by lesbian nurses around self-disclosure, both positive and negative, suggest ways in which self-disclosure can be addressed. Dedicated to my parents who taught me the importance of education, to my partner for her undying love and support, and to the women of this study who had the courage to tell their experiences and become visible."""" |
