Portuguese Older Gay Men: Pathways to Family Integrity

Authors

  • Filipa Daniela Marques Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra
  • Liliana Sousa Universidade de Aveiro

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-43272664201602

Abstract

Research in the field of older gay men remains scarce. This exploratory study examines older gay men's experiences in the construction of family integrity (versus disconnection and alienation). The family integrity approach is a developmental perspective that links ego integrity to a larger process of constructing meaning within the family system. The sample comprises ten participants (from 60 to 88 years old). A semi-structured interview was conducted and submitted to content analysis. The main findings suggest three experiences in older gay men's construction of family integrity: (i) influence of homosexuality throughout life; (ii) establishing a family of choice; (iii) creating a legacy associated with homosexuality. Family integrity in older gay men seems to evolve from disclosure at a young age to making homosexuality a legacy in old age.

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Published

2016-08-01

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Marques, F. D., & Sousa, L. (2016). Portuguese Older Gay Men: Pathways to Family Integrity . Paidéia (Ribeirão Preto), 26(64), 149-159. https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-43272664201602