Race, Sexuality, and the Complexity of Identity: How Racial/Ethnic Identity and Perceived LGBTQ+ Attitudes Shape LGBTQ+ Identity Disclosure

Abstract

This study examined how racial/ethnic identity strength and perceived LGBTQ+ attitudes within racial/ethnic communities influence LGBTQ+ identity disclosure. Disclosure is shaped not only by internalized identity but by perceptions of support and cultural belonging. An online survey of 240 LGBTQ+ adults in the United States focused on monoracial Black and White participants. Measures assessed racial/ethnic identity strength, perceived LGBTQ+ attitudes, LGBTQ+ disclosure, and mental health and well-being, alongside supplementary items evaluating identity-related stress and comfort with disclosure. Contrary to initial predictions, stronger racial/ethnic identity was associated with greater LGBTQ+ disclosure, suggesting that racial identity may empower authenticity in affirming environments. Perceived LGBTQ+ attitudes were positively associated with disclosure, and exploratory analyses indicated that perceived support moderated the relationship between racial/ethnic identity strength and disclosure outcomes. Disclosure was also positively linked to mental health and well-being. Supplementary findings revealed low levels of identity-related stress and moderate comfort within racial/ethnic communities. These results underscore the need to view LGBTQ+ disclosure decisions through an intersectional lens, highlighting the dynamic ways racial, cultural, and sexual identities interact to shape openness and well-being.