Uit de Kast: The Psychosocial Formation of Lesbian and Gay Identity in Dutch Adolescence

B. Green

Homosexual identity formation and the coming out process were examined in the lives of 7 gay (one gay with an islamitic background) and lesbian adolescents living in the Netherlands. These 7 adolescents were interviewed and their responses were analyzed for themes and patterns that were common throughout their narratives. Results indicated that homosexual identity formation occurs both psychologically and socially for these young Dutch gay and lesbian individuals. Psychologically, the adolescents experienced sensitized feelings of same-sex attraction before accepting their gay identity or they immediately realized that they are gay. Many of the adolescents also expressed cognitive dissonance or internalized homophobia. Social factors also helped or hindered homosexual identity formation, including parents, religion, school environment, classmates, and social media. For all of the participants, the coming out process was an important part of their formation and final acceptance of their homosexual identity. The general ease, happiness, and comfort in accepting their homosexual identity, suggest that these adolescents benefit from living in a secular and tolerant Dutch society.