Sexual identity, coming out, and romantic relationships among self-confessed college tomboys and lesbians

Abstract

This study described the sexual identity, coming out, and romantic relationships among self-confessed college tomboys and lesbians. Eight respondents (6 tomboys; 2 lesbians) participated in this study. The tomboys were found to assume more of a masculine role, while lesbians the feminine role. Questionnaires were utilized to describe gender identity and coming out. Also, two Likert types of scales by John Mohr that is Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Identity Scale and Outness Inventory were used. One-one-one interview with the respondents was also conducted to further substantiate what it is being a tomboy or n.lesbian. Results showed that a greater number of respondents (50%) had experienced sexual identity confusion during their elementary years. The same percentage of respondents also reported that it was at the age of 15 that they first realized that they were homosexuals. All of the respondents are clear of their sexual identity and have fully accepted themselves. The respondents were open to their friends. While open to their friends, they remain to be closeted at home due to the stigma that is attached by their family members to tomboys and lesbians.