The role of the Black Church in the lives of young Black men who have sex with men. Cult Health Sex 2016;18(5):524-37
Date
10/23/2015Pubmed ID
26489851Pubmed Central ID
PMC4805462DOI
10.1080/13691058.2015.1091509Scopus ID
2-s2.0-84945162347 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 35 CitationsAbstract
In the USA, the Black Church is among the most important institutions in the Black community, offering numerous spiritual, social and health benefits. Yet, the presence of homonegativity in many Black Churches may mitigate those effects for gay Black youth. This research examines the role of the Church in the lives of gay and bisexual Black youth to understand how they reconcile any tension between their religious and sexual identities. Through interviews with pastors of Black churches (n = 21) and young Black men who have sex with men (n = 30), we explored homonegativity and young men's experiences within the Black Church. Findings reveal that despite the prevalence of homonegativity within Black churches, religious involvement remains important for young men and many remain involved in non-affirming churches. The importance of the Church for young men stems from their significant involvement as youth and the integration of religion, family and community. Young men may not be able to leave their religious homes as readily as other gay youth given the cultural relevance of the Church. As a result, young men made attempts to conceal their sexuality in church to avoid shame and gossip and find opportunities to balance their sexuality and religiosity.
Author List
Quinn K, Dickson-Gomez J, Kelly JAAuthors
Julia Dickson-Gomez PhD Professor in the Institute for Health and Equity department at Medical College of WisconsinJeffrey A. Kelly PhD Professor in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin
Katherine Quinn PhD Associate Professor in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin
MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
AdolescentAdult
Aged
Clergy
Homosexuality, Male
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Religion
Religion and Psychology
Sexual Behavior
Social Stigma
Young Adult
