Author(s): Rasim BABAHANOÄLU
The aim of this research is to analyze the experiences of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans) individuals in the society within the scope of qualitative research method and to determine whether they have difficulties in their society. Besides, it is trying to learn how LGBT individuals look at the society they are in. Qualitative research method was used in this study. Interview, which is one of the qualitative research methods, was carried out with the method used in scientific researches, where more subjective and numerical data could not be collected such as observation and in-depth interview. In this study, in order to find out the problems of LGBT individuals in the society in accordance with the interview technique approach, the data were collected through a questionnaire form prepared by the researcher beforehand. The universe of the research consists of LGBT individuals in Konya province. The sample group consisted of 10 LGBT individuals obtained by snowball sampling method and one-to-one interviews were conducted with these individuals. Snowball sampling is generally preferred in subjects that are sensitive and difficult to reach. It becomes easier for the researcher to reach the participants he or she knows and the other participants. With this method, it is possible to access more data with the added events and subjects while the research is ongoing. Similarly, the researcher can reach the problem and the purpose of the study in a more objective and sensitive way. This study is thought to be very important to learn the feelings and thoughts of LGBT individuals as individuals of our society and how their outlook on society is, to look at, approach and evaluate social work from the perspective that each person is honorable and valued, as well as to analyze the data obtained from these individuals. In this study, the individuals who participated in the study were as follows; 80% were women and 20% were men. 10% of the participants stated their sexual orientation as gay, 50% stated that they were bisexual and 30% stated their sexual orientation as heterosexual. The individuals involved in the study think that they are exposed to negative experiences and conflicts related to these negative experiences at various stages of their identity development. These negative experiences are often thought to be homophobic and heterosexist in society, and result from cultural lifestyles and society's attitudes. It is seen that the individual's family and environment have some negative prejudices and stereotypes against LGBT individuals regardless of their other cultural and ideological values. It is suggested that similar and more comprehensive studies should be conducted on this subject in order to consider the homophobic attitudes and behaviors experienced in more detail.
The Journal of International Social Research received 7760 citations as per Google Scholar report
