EXPERIENCES ON GENDER DISCLOSURE

Adolescents' formation of their sexual and gender identities is a complex and frequently

difficult process. According to Mills-Koonce et al. (2023), this process of development

usually starts before puberty and involves the establishment of attitudes and preferences

related to sexual experiences and attractions. This time is stressful and a time of significant

transformation for many LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other gender

and sexual minority) youth (Mills-Koonce et al., 2023). For LGBTQIA+ people, coming out

is a crucial and frequently frightening process that is important to their self-identification

(Denes & Afifi, 2014; Rosati et al., 2020).

According to Mills-Koonce et al. (2023), the choice to reveal one's sexual orientation or

gender identity to a parent throughout adolescence is special and noteworthy because of the

person's age and family status. It's an extremely private process that takes place in the

ongoing attachment connections (Mills-Koonce et al., 2023). However, parents' answers to

the revelation can vary, ranging from positive acceptance to negative rejection or

delayed/neutral replies. These reactions can have an immediate and long-term impact on

LGBTQIA+ youth's well-being (Mills-Koonce et al., 2023).

The importance of revealing one's essential identity with others underscores LGBTQIA+

youths' vulnerability to rejection upon coming out (Mills-Koonce et al., 2023). This kind of

rejection can cause feelings of emotional rejection and loneliness, which can have a negative

impact on one's self-worth, increase internalizing and externalizing behaviors, and increase

the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and attempts (Mills-Koonce et al., 2023; Rosati et al.,

2020).
Many LGBTQIA+ people feel driven to come out in order to achieve self-acceptance and

inclusion, despite potential risks (Leung, 2021; Rosati et al., 2020). Perceived safety and

support in one's environment can have a role in the decision to reveal one's identify (Leung,

2021). A person's ability to adapt to their LGBT identity can be greatly improved by

affirming and accepting responses from confidants (Estepa & Mirman, 2023).

According to Katz-Wise et al. (2017), transgender people experience additional difficulties,

including prejudice, discrimination, and discrimination that is comparable to that of sexual

minorities. However, coming out is still a crucial step on their path to being seen and

acknowledged (Rosati et al., 2020).

LOCAL

Coming out, or revealing one's gender identity or sexual orientation, is a crucial turning point

in the lives of LGBTQIA+ people and often influences how they see themselves and interact

with others. Amil-Aguilar & Rungduin (2022) highlight that coming out is an opportunity for

Filipino gays to interact and communicate with their families, especially with parents and

siblings, in addition to being a personal discovery. The formation of a person's homosexual

identity depends on their positive experiences of acceptance from others and from themselves

(Amil-Aguilar & Rungduin, 2022). But social rejection and the stigma, harassment, and

prejudice that follow may hinder this process and create problems including personality

changes and abusive environments (Amil-Aguilar & Rungduin, 2022).

Despite these difficulties, disclosure is viewed as a decision and a form of self-expression,

representing the autonomy of the individual to choose when and how to come out as gay

(Amil-Aguilar & Rungduin, 2022). Pedro and Bacud (2020) emphasize the need of coming

out for young LGBT people even more, pointing out how it affects their academic
performance and how different reactions from family, school, and the community might

result from cultural and familial beliefs. Although there is a noticeable increase in

acceptance, complete acknowledgment of LGBT rights is still essential for promoting

acceptance and favorable attitudes (Pedro and Bacud, 2020).

According to Buendia (2020), coming out is a journey that lasts a lifetime, is specific to each

person, and is impacted by a variety of elements including cultural norms, familial support,

and self-expectations. Coming out is seen as a necessary step in establishing one's

non-heterosexual identity, despite its difficulties (Buendia, 2020).

Local case studies shed more light on the complexity of the coming-out process by

emphasizing how family dynamics, cultural attitudes, and self-expectations shape people's

experiences (Cebu, 2023). These studies highlight the bravery and patience needed for people

to overcome the obstacles of gender disclosure and accepting who they are completely.

PARENTAL SUPPORT IN GENDER DISCLOSURE

Support from parents and relatives has a big impact on what LGBTQ+ people go through

when they come out as gender nonconforming. The presence or absence of this support can

have a significant impact on people's adjustment and mental health while navigating their

gender identity.
First reactions from parents are typically negative when they are informed, according to Roe

(2017). Nonetheless, young people who identify as LGBTQ+ make it apparent that they need

help from their parents and other family members in order to feel accepted and understood as

they go through a process of self-discovery. Snapp et al. (2015) have underlined the

significant role that family acceptance plays in determining beneficial outcomes. According

to their research, happy experiences are greatly influenced by the support of friends, family,

and the larger community, with family acceptance having the biggest influence. Furthermore,

Gray et al. (2016) highlight the critical role parents play in providing an affirming

environment for their children and stress the significance of parental acceptance in building a

non-stigmatized upbringing for children who identify as gender nonconforming.

D'Amico et al. (2015) explore the relationship between youth identification and parental

support and find a strong link between the psychological well-being of the youth and the

attitudes of parents toward their child's sexual orientation. This emphasizes how important

parental acceptance is in helping LGBTQ+ adolescents have a favorable developmental

trajectory. Additionally, Averett (2016) emphasizes how parents strive to provide their kids

gender-affirming options, but that societal factors like race, social class, and community

support frequently have an impact on these attempts.

But not every LGBTQ+ person gets the same amount of support from their family. According

to Abreu et al. (2022), transgender and genderqueer people frequently report lower levels of

parental support tailored to the LGBTQ+ community, which can result in higher levels of

symptoms associated with depression. Furthermore, as Baiocco (2014) points out, parental

responses to gender revelation might differ greatly depending on a variety of circumstances,

including political beliefs, family dynamics, and religiosity. Youth' self-esteem and mental

health can be severely impacted by unfavorable parent reactions, particularly those from
mothers, which intensify feelings of insecurity and humiliation. According to McConnell and

Mustanski's (2016) study, adolescents who experience psychological distress during

adolescence report lower levels of family support and higher levels of assistance from other

sources when they lack family support.

LOCAL

The experiences of LGBT people with gender disclosure are greatly influenced by parental

and family support. Research by Aguilar & Rungduin (2022) highlight how parents' first and

continuing reactions to their teenagers' disclosures of their LGBT identities impact the

adaptation and restructuring of families. Resilience and stronger family ties are promoted by

parental acceptance and support. However, as Aguilar & Rungduin's findings establish, the

lack of acceptance combined with psychological control by parents can significantly cause

feelings of exclusion among LGBT teenagers. For LGBT youth, family acceptance creates a

supportive atmosphere by acting as a buffer from external minority pressures (Aguilar &

Rungduin, 2022).

Filipino cultural factors, as examined by Tiglao (2014), frequently contribute to a smoother

gender disclosure experiences because of close-knit familial bonds and a welcoming attitude.

Early disclosures are made possible by supportive family interactions, especially those

involving mothers, even in the face of initial obstacles. But Tiglao also points out that fathers

could first have a hard time being accepted, displaying a variety of emotional reactions.

Restrained relationships can be repaired over time with better communication and

understanding, underscoring the significance of familial support (Tiglao, 2014).

Reloj (2021) emphasizes the challenges associated with coming out, which come from

worries about parental rejection and punishment. Parental rejection shown in the form of

psychological suffering or physical punishment highlights the detrimental impact on the

mental and physical health of LGBT people. Buendia (2022) stresses the negative effects of

familial rejection, associating it with increased chances of sadness, substance abuse, and

suicidal thoughts and actions among young LGBTQI individuals. On the other hand, family

acceptance promotes positive self-image, social support, and overall health, acting as a buffer

against unfavorable consequences (Buendia, 2022).

In their exploration of the intricate structure of acceptance among parents, Bidola et al.

(2023) emphasize the often-gradual nature of this process. Different parents may react

differently at first; some may show resistance or doubt before accepting their child's identity.

However, welcoming parents emphasize the value of comprehending and appreciating

multiple identities in addition to providing support for their own children and advocating for

acceptance in larger social groups.

PEER SUPPORT IN GENDER DISCLOSURE

The experiences that LGBTQ+ people have with their peers and friends have a big impact on

how they go about declaring their gender identity or sexual orientation. Snapp et al. (2015)

highlight that young people frequently have more encouragement from their their peers,

friends, and their community as they go from adolescence to early adulthood, which can help

them change positively. Lesbian and bisexual girls' mental health outcomes are improved

when they have parental support and friendships that they can keep after disclosing their

sexual orientation, according to a 2003 study by D'Augelli.

Snapp et al. (2015) discovered that friends' social support about sexuality during adolescence

was a strong predictor of early adult adjustment results. Going out with friends lowers the

demand for identity preservation and the stress that goes along with it, which improves

wellbeing (Snapp et al., 2015).

While friendship support has been linked to better well-being, according to Snapp et al.

(2015), when different forms of support are taken into account together, family acceptance

generally has a stronger overall impact. Parra et al. (2017) illustrate this further by showing

how support from peers can mitigate the adverse impacts of victimization and familial

attitudes on LGBTQ+ emerging adults' mental health outcomes.

For LGBTQ+ youth, peer interactions could present difficulties despite their possible

advantages. Higa et al. (2015) point out situations in which peers might not comprehend one

another or offer unfavorable or unsupportive experiences. This can include having trouble

finding peers with whom to confide.

Another important factor influencing LGBTQ+ youth's experiences is peer victimization.

According to Kiperman et al. (2022), coming out can be more difficult and can raise worries

about judgment from peers about one's gender identity or sexual orientation. Nonetheless,

encouraging peer relationships can operate as a protective barrier against these negative

events by fostering mental resilience and a feeling of community (Kiperman et al., 2022).

LOCAL

For LGBTQ+ people, coming out as gay is an important part of their lives, especially when it

comes to telling friends. Female friends frequently act as among the first trusted individuals

because of sentiments of closeness and resemblance, as Aguilar & Rungduin (2022) point
out. Many homosexual people manage to form healthy connections and strong social

networks in spite of the stigma associated with their sexual orientation. This, encourages

them to interact freely with peers rather than their families.

Friends who are accepting of their sexuality can act as an encouragement for people to

remove the heterosexual mask and embrace who they really are (Aguilar & Rungduin, 2022).

But difficulties do come up during the process of disclosure, such as shifting perceptions and

divergent views on gender identity (Aguilar & Rungduin, 2022).

Friends' emotional support is one of the main sources of believed support for LGBTQ+

people, according to Balanza et al. (2015). Positive disclosure experiences are influenced by

friends' comfort, encouragement, and sense of admiration (Amil-Aguilar & Rungduin, 2022).

However, peer victimization still needs to be addressed because it can lead to internalized

homophobia, anxiety, and depression, among other negative outcomes (Buendia, 2020).

Adolescent decisions, including the choice to come out, can also be influenced by peer

defiance (Pedro & Bacud, 2020).

The coming-out process is greatly helped by the encouragement of LGBTQ+ friends, despite

these obstacles. Peers who have gone through similar things might offer LGBT children

support and advice (Pedro & Bacud, 2020). In the same way, gays and lesbians frequently tell

their closest and most reliable friends about their sexual orientation (Reloj, 2021).

Friends who identify as homosexual can support and empower one another during the

coming-out process (Maniago, 2018). According to Maniago (2018), it facilitates people's

development of a sense of self-worth and community among LGBTQ+ individuals.

COMMUNITY/NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORT IN GENDER DISCLOSURE

Many studies shed light on the complex processes in the examination of neighborhood and

community support for LGBTQ people who disclose their gender identity. LGBTQ

community centers, which provide a range of services catered to the needs of sexual and

gender minorities, have become significant sources for mental health care over time

(Pachankis et al., 2021). LGBTQ community centers play a critical role in assisting sexual

and gender minorities with their mental health.

One important component of LGBTQ people's well-being is neighborhood cohesion.

Research shows that persons who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) frequently feel

less cohesive neighborhoods than adults who identify as heterosexual (Henning-Smith &

Gonzales, 2018). Additionally, local relationships are essential for mitigating the harmful

impacts of minority stress that LGBTQ people encounter (Miller et al., 2022).

LGBTQ persons' experiences in marginalized environments, especially in low- and

middle-income nations, highlight the importance of community support (Lin & Hwahng,

2024). LGBTQ people are more resilient to the increased challenges they encounter in these

situations when they have the social support of their families and communities.

Gay communities, often called gayborhoods, are especially important to LGBTQ people who

are looking for acceptance and a place to call home (Doan & Atalay, 2021). These
communities provide areas where people can openly express who they are without fear of

harassment or judgment. According to Hess & Bitterman (2021), LGBTQ people' general

well-being is influenced by their sense of belonging and security in their gayborhoods.

Furthermore, LGBT communities are essential for advancing tolerance in society at large and

pushing for constructive urban transformation (Gorman-Murray & Nash, 2021).

Nonetheless, there are differences in the experiences LGBTQ people have in different

communal contexts. Individuals' experiences of inclusion and acceptance are shaped by the

intersections of their sexual orientation with factors like race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic

background (Kavanaugh et al., 2019; Roberts & Christens, 2020). Additionally, it is common

for rural communities to lack the resources and support systems required to create a

welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ people, which contributes to feelings of alienation and

prevents the growth support systems (Agueli et al., 2022).

LOCAL

Studies have shown a great deal of interest in the community support for LGBT people. For

example, Fabillar and Fellizar (2019) studied the social acceptance of the LGBTQ population

among local government legislators in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The city has

integrated policies about gender equality into its Gender and Development (GAD) policy and

has undertaken activities and projects aimed at promoting the welfare of the LGBTQ

community, although there's a lack of an anti-discrimination ordinance. According to the

study, societal acceptance can be improved by positive experiences with the LGBTQ

community.

However, the Philippines has widespread anti-LGBTQ stigma, just like many other countries.

According to research by Rances and Hechanova (2014), stigma encompasses the numerous

forms of discrimination and harassment that members of sexual minorities within Filipino

communities experience. Aguilar & Rungduin (2022) draw attention to the difficulties

LGBTQ people face as a result of prejudice, cultural norms, and stereotypes. Although

coming out as gay can be difficult, there are also good experiences that come from being

comfortable, having support, and being aware of how stereotypes are changing in

communities.

According to Pedro and Bacud (2020), LGBTQ youth still experience prejudice and

homophobic bullying in educational settings. Families and communities respond in different

ways; some show acceptance, while others show discrimination. According to Ceperiano et

al. (2016), cultural and familial norms frequently affect these reactions, which causes some

people to hide their sexual orientation in order to prevent discrimination.

Despite these obstacles, progress is being made. According to Añonuevo and Digo (2023),

there is a steady acceptance of LGBTQ individuals in schools, neighborhoods, and society at

large, as seen by their growing comfort level when disclosing their identities in public.
CHALLENGES IN GENDER DISCLOSURE

Numerous studies have examined the complex and significantly impacting barriers

LGBTQIA+ people have when attempting to disclose their gender identity. Such disclosures

can result in negative outcomes for queer individuals, ranging from rejection and bullying to

less obvious forms of discrimination (Ali & Barden, 2015; Estepa & Mirman, 2023;

McConnell et al., 2015; Mills-Koonce et al., 2023; Koch et al., 2023; Omurov, 2017;

Khuzwayo, 2021; Sahoo et al., 2023).

Research shows that LGBTQIA+ youth's mental health and general well-being are

significantly affected by rejection, whether it is stated or perceived (McConnell et al., 2015;

Mills-Koonce et al., 2023). Drug abuse and other dangerous behaviors might result from

feeling rejected (Estepa & Mirman, 2023).

Gender disclosure is difficult because of the hostile environment created by social stigma,

privacy concerns, and fear of discrimination (Koch et al., 2023), and are often reluctant to

come out because they fear being invalidated and misunderstood (Khuzwayo, 2021).

An important factor in the coming-out journey is family dynamics. Concealing as a protective

technique results from unfavorable family circumstances and adherence to conventional

norms, which further prevent disclosure (Sahoo et al., 2023).

The disclosure experience is also shaped by cultural influences. Coming out is delayed in

collectivist cultures like India because to the fear of upsetting family structures and receiving

negative feedback from the community (Sahoo et al., 2023).

LGBTQIA+ people struggle with internalized prejudice and a sense of rejection, which

makes them reluctant to share their identities (Omurov, 2017). In addition to the possibility of

violence or conversion therapy, societal conventions intensify this internal struggle.

LOCAL

LGBT people face complicated and deeply ingrained cultural, familial, and peer interactions

when it comes to gender disclosure issues. The importance of support networks is

emphasized by Buendia (2020), who also draws attention to the negative effects that a lack of

support can have on one's mental health, including an increased risk of substance misuse,

depression, and suicide. In particular, unfavorable family responses carry a substantial risk to

both mental and physical health consequences; in particular, family rejection during gender

disclosure is strongly linked to worse health outcomes.

Reloj (2021) emphasizes how the surrounding circumstances, especially in school

environments where homophobia is still widespread, contribute to the difficulties LGBT

adolescents encounter. The statistically substantial incidence of suicide behaviors among

LGBT people is supported by empirical evidence added by Manalastas (2016).

Aguilar & Rungduin (2022) provide insight into the complex types of discrimination that

LGBT people face, from personality changes to other types of assault. The process of
disclosing to friends might be made more difficult by obstacles like shifting perspectives and

divergent views on sexual orientation. Furthermore, Letsoala (2016) draws attention to how

peers can use religion as a justification for homophobic attacks, which exacerbates feelings of

loneliness and rejection.

According to Pedro and Bacud (2020), homophobic bullying in schools and prejudice in the

community are widespread and have a negative impact on LGBT youth's academic progress

and absenteeism. Rejection from family members can cause people to take extreme actions,

including fleeing their home, which makes it harder for people to find acceptance.

Using data from UP Babaylan, the first LGBT student organization in the Philippines, Tang

and Poudel's (2018) study explores the difficulties faced by LGBT people in the country.

Their research reveals widespread prejudice and bullying in social and educational settings,

which becomes worse by rejection from family members and cultural factors that prevent the

acceptance of LGBT identities. The study emphasizes how these difficulties have a

significant negative influence on mental health, with LGBT people experiencing sadness,

anxiety, and suicidal thoughts as a result of prejudice, rejection anxiety, and inadequate

awareness about HIV/AIDS. Participants also discuss the negative impacts of social media,

which further marginalizes the LGBT population by spreading false information and stigma.

BENEFITS IN GENDER DISCLOSURE

The investigation of gender disclosure in the LGBTQ+ community reveals the significant

effects of people who embrace their true gender identities.

According to Lurie (2014), there is an obvious trend in the rise in the community's access to

professionally trained therapists that corresponds with the rising visibility of transgender and

gender non-conforming persons. This discovery points to an increasing acknowledgment and

acceptance of a range of gender identities, which could help many people come out.

McKay & Watson (2020) emphasize differences among transgender youth and discuss the

implications of gender disclosure for mental health. According to their research, transgender

females who have come out more often tend to report less depressive symptoms, highlighting

the possible advantages of coming out as gender nonconforming.

Asakura and Craig (2014) and Dyke et al. (2021) explore the intricate dynamics of coming

out, highlighting that people run the risk of losing their networks of support and friendships,

but they also have the opportunity to gain a sense of belonging and genuine self-expression.

Pinter et al. (2020) emphasize the special advantages of being transparent about one's identity

in digital environments and stress the significance of online visibility for transgender and

non-binary people.

The coming out process is influenced by family and peer support, as noted by McConnell et

al. (2015) and Estepa and Mirman (2023). Positive responses from peers and parents are

regularly associated with better mental health outcomes, such as reduced rates of depression

and suicidal thoughts and feelings of self-worth. These results are supported by Mills-Koonce

et al. (2023), who stress the sense of security and validation that come with receiving

acceptance and support from close ones.

Furthermore, coming out has advantages for wider cultural transformation in addition to

personal wellbeing. According to Lindsey et al. (2020) and the article from Case Western

Reserve University (2024), personal stories have the power to dispel myths and promote a

broader awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. People who live honestly and

freely not only improve their relationships and sense of self, but they also support the larger

struggle for LGBTQ+ visibility and rights.

LOCAL

The reviewed studies offer insightful information about the advantages of gender disclosure

for LGBTQI people in Philippine contexts.

According to Buendia et al. (2020), coming out has a good effect on one's mental health and

sense of self-worth, especially when supportive family situations are present. According to

their research, LGBTQI people who reveal their identities to a wider audience report feeling

better about themselves and having fewer depressive episodes. In addition, families that

provide support foster the growth of constructive coping mechanisms and resilience in the

face of prejudice and mockery, which in turn lowers the likelihood of depression and suicide.

Reloj (2021) delves deeper into the social dynamics surrounding disclosure, highlighting the

difficulties and good times LGBTQI people encounter in a variety of contexts. Many lesbians

and homosexual people reported pleasant interactions and acceptance from peers despite the
frequency of homophobic insults and discrimination. This allowed them to face societal

problems with courage and the support of friends.

Aguilar & Rungduin (2022) and Balanza et al. (2015) explore the internal and environmental

factors that affect LGBTQI people's disclosure of their identities. Despite cultural biases,

lesbians had a positive self-image and confidence, suggesting a shift towards greater

openness and acceptance. In the same manner, gay people in the Philippines stated that they

felt comfortable revealing their gender identification and acknowledged social acceptance,

media portrayal, and educational programs for their comfort.

Cebu (2023) delves deeper into the psychological process of accepting one's identity,

emphasizing the life-changing power of self-acceptance and societal support. With friends'

acceptance and their worry and doubt receding, participants felt relief and comfort as they

accepted their genuine selves.