Philippine E-Journals

Factors that Influence the Achievement of an Affirmative Gay Identity

Ronaldo A. Motilla

Discipline: Gender Studies, Social Studies

 

Abstract:

This study examined whether social support network, religious beliefs, and locus of control influence successful aging, which is defined as the achievement of an affirmative gay identity. Ten self-identified older gay men, aged 60-77 years old, participated in the study. The results revealed that friendship networks are very important in the attainment of an affirmative gay identity. Majority of the participants are high in internal locus of control and most of them believe that their homosexuality is naturally and divinely given.