Expression of Sexuality: Comparison of Gay, Lesbian, and Heterosexual Couples.

Expression of Sexuality: Comparison of Gay, Lesbian, and Heterosexual Couples, David W. Seal, Kathleen Ragsdale, and Janet L. Boller, Medical College of Wisconsin

In a qualitative study of intimacy in couples, we asked participants to define sexuality, discuss the ways that they express their sexuality, and indicate aspects of or situations in which they were hesitant to express their sexuality. 137 couples (46 gay, 46 lesbian, 45 heterosexual) in a new relationship (mean = 89 days), ages 18-38, completed separate and confidential interviews. Most participants were African American or White. Thematic content analyses were conducted using principles of grounded theory. Nine thematic clusters emerged. Participants in gay or lesbian relationships were more likely to define sexuality as a part of their general identity; men in gay relationships were most likely to define sexuality by sexual attractions. There were no significant gender differences. The majority of participants (65%) said they were always or typically open with their sexuality, while 20% and 15%, respectively, said they were typically or always guarded in expression of their sexuality. Men in gay relationships were most likely to say they openly expressed their sexuality; women in lesbian relationships were the least likely. Among people who sometimes hesitated to express their sexuality, people in gay or lesbian relationships were significantly more likely to attribute their hesitancy to situational contexts or to avoid societal judgment. These data demonstrate the ways that people define and express sexuality and highlight important differences among people involved in gay, lesbian, and heterosexual relationships.