An Explanatory Study on Perceived Parental Attitudes, Internalized Homophobia, and Psychological Well-Being of Gay College Students in Metro Manila

Abstract

Gay men are reported to have poor psychological well-being. Various studies have pointed out the associations of parental attitudes and internalized homophobia to the psychological well-being of gay male college students. The current study utilized a sequential explanatory method in determining and exploring the strongest predictive factor of psychological well-being of gay college male students, through the use of online surveys and phenomenological interviews. Through non-probability convenience sampling, a total of 196 self-identified gay men answered the online survey, of whom six participated in the interview. The survey was composed of different questionnaires namely, Parental Acceptance-Rejection Questionnaire (short-form), the Internalized Homophobia Scale, and the Psychological Well-Being Scale. Meanwhile, the interview guide was a self-made questionnaire developed by the researcher and validated by professionals. Data analysis included multivariate analysis of variables, linear regression, and thematic analysis. Results showed that participants perceived that their fathers as generally rejecting while their mothers as accepting. They have also reported low levels of internalized homophobia and poor psychological well-being. Regression analysis showed that perceived parental attitudes predict psychological well-being, most especially paternal attitudes. The participants have admitted that they have a lot to work on the aspects of well-being, such as self- esteem, relationship with other people, and autonomy. This study proved the importance and impact of parental acceptance to an individual’s psychological well-being, specifically that of gay youth.