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‘Ego-dystonicity’ in homosexuality: An Indian perspective

Author

Listed:
  • Ami Sebastian Maroky
  • Aswin Ratheesh
  • Biju Viswanath
  • Suresh Bada Math
  • Channapatna R Chandrashekar
  • Shekhar P Seshadri

Abstract

Background: Homosexual persons are targets of verbal and physical abuse, discrimination and face legal disadvantages in many countries, including India. These external factors could play a role in determining discomfort with their sexuality. Aims: We ascertained the association between ego-dystonicity of sexual orientation and indices of perceived acceptance, stigma and awareness of possible normative lifestyles. Methods: Fifty-one self-identified adult homosexual men were assessed using online questionnaires that covered information including their socio-demographic details; a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) that measured their degree of discomfort with their sexuality; Reactions to Homosexuality Scale, Perceived Acceptance Scale, Modified China Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) Stigma scale; and trait version of the Positive and Negative Affect Scale. The participants were also asked to provide a written narrative of their experiences which influenced their comfort with their sexuality. Results: Discomfort with sexuality significantly correlated with education, acceptance by friends and family, legal disadvantages, awareness and accessibility to non-heteronormative lifestyles and support systems and trait affect. Only acceptance by friends and awareness showed significance on linear regression. Qualitative analyses revealed external attributions for discomfort. Conclusions: Modifying external factors, reducing legal restrictions and improving societal acceptance and support systems could reduce ‘ego-dystonicity’. ‘Ego-dystonicity’ as a determinant for psychiatric classification and intervention needs to be reexamined.

Suggested Citation

  • Ami Sebastian Maroky & Aswin Ratheesh & Biju Viswanath & Suresh Bada Math & Channapatna R Chandrashekar & Shekhar P Seshadri, 2015. "‘Ego-dystonicity’ in homosexuality: An Indian perspective," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 61(4), pages 311-318, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:61:y:2015:i:4:p:311-318
    DOI: 10.1177/0020764014543709
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gilman, S.E. & Cochran, S.D. & Mays, V.M. & Hughes, M. & Ostrow, D. & Kessler, R.C., 2001. "Risk of psychiatric disorders among individuals reporting same-sex sexual partners in the national comorbidity survey," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 91(6), pages 933-939.
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