“It’s a Horrible Sin. If They Find Out,I Will Not be Able to Stay”: Orthodox Jewish Gay Men’s Experiences Living in Secrecy |
| |
Authors: | Haya Itzhaky Karni Kissil |
| |
Institution: | 1. School of Social Work, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel;2. Private Practice, Jupiter, Florida, USA |
| |
Abstract: | This qualitative study examined the intersection of sexual orientation and religion in the Jewish Orthodox community by exploring 22 Orthodox Jewish gay men’s experiences living in secrecy. Analysis of in-depth interviews conducted with these men revealed four primary themes: emotional turmoil, ways of coping, impact on family relationships, and importance of the context. Findings from this study describe the daily struggles these men experienced keeping their homosexuality a secret. The findings suggest that in order to design effective interventions with this population, it is crucial to consider the larger community and religious context. |
| |
Keywords: | homosexuality ultra-Orthodox Jews gay men intersecting identities secrecy closeted gay |
|
|