Gay Men Who Came Out in Graduate School Sought for Dissertation Research

Via the SJTI Listserv:

I am currently carrying out a research project and would like you to consider sharing this information with current or former students/colleagues.  I am studying the coming out experiences of gay men who first publicly disclosed their sexual orientation while attending a graduate program in student affairs/higher education administration.  

 

The purpose of the study is to understand the experiences of gay men coming out, factors that lead to a student’s decision to disclose their sexual orientation, influence of their graduate program on their decision to come out, and how that decision to disclose their sexual orientation impacts their work today. Those who choose to participate, will be asked to participate in two interviews. 

 

The first interview will last 90-120 minutes and will focus on individuals lived experiences. To frame the conversation, individuals will be asked to draw a timeline indicating significant life milestones, events, and decisions prior to coming out.  The second interview,  lasting 60-90 minutes will focus specifically on their time in their graduate program and the coming out experience.  Based on availability, interviews will be conducted face-to-face or via Skype.

 

To participate in the study, participants must 18 or older self-identify as gay man, first disclosing this identity during graduate school (between the years 2008 and 2012) in a masters level student affairs/higher education academic program. Participation in this study is entirely voluntary and participants can withdraw from the study at any time. Individual’s participation in the study will also remain confidential. While the results may be published, individual’s identity will be protected. Those who meet the criteria of the study, and elect to participate, will receive a $25.00 gift card upon completion of the study

 

I encourage you to share this information with others in your professional network.  I am happy to answer any questions potential participants may have about the study. You, or others may contact me at 301-641-9472, ordepierre@uga.edu. In addition potential participants may contact the principle investigator, Dr. Diane Cooper, faculty member at the University of Georgia, College of Education, Department of Counseling and Human Development Services at dlcooper@uga.edu or by phone at 706-542-1812.

Cheers!
dp

Darren  E. Pierre
Doctoral Intern, Assessment & Staff Development

Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs
University of Georgia