Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Semester of Degree Completion
2015
Thesis Director
Matthew J. Gill
Abstract
Previous research emphasizes the benefits associated with having open gay and lesbian employees. However, many gay and lesbian employees still remain in the closet. This project examines barriers preventing gay and lesbian individuals from coming out at work. Four lesbian women and three gay men in the early stages of their careers were interviewed about their experiences of being closeted at work. Analysis reveals four barriers preventing gay and lesbian individuals from coming out at work and explores how these barriers are reinforced by informal organizational communication. Theoretical and practical implications for organizational communication research are discussed, and recommendations for future research are presented.
Recommended Citation
Guenzi, Marissa A., "Barriers to Communicating Sexual Orientation Identity at Work" (2015). Masters Theses. 2061.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/2061
Included in
Gender and Sexuality Commons, Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication Commons, Organizational Communication Commons
