The psychological outcomes of homophobic discourse on gay men

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Date
2006
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Abstract

The aim of this study was to provide insight into the nature of homophobic discourse and how it manifests itself in Namibia. Therefore, the first objective of the study was to explore homophobic discourse in Namibia. The second research objective was to examine a few gay men's awareness and experience of the homophobic discourse in Namibia. The third objective of the study was to investigate the psychological outcomes of homophobic discourse on gay men in Namibia
The literature review provided insight into the current and historical situation in Namibia with respect to homophobic discourse. Literature indicated that homophobic discourse presents itself in Namibia in themes of homosexuality as unnatural, un-African and un-Christian. Unstructured interviews were done with five homosexual men
The analysis of the data and interpretation were done according to Parker (1992)'s method of Discourse Analysis. The results of the research showed that gay men are experiencing significant homophobia in Namibia. Homophobia led to gay men being the primary targets of discrimination and abuse
The study found that homophobic discourse in Namibia can have detrimental psychological outcomes such as anxiety and depression for gay men. It is important to note that a positive psychological outcome of homophobic discourse on gay men, namely, assertiveness, was found in this research.
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Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts (Clinical/Counselling Psychology)
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