Negotiating Difficult Decisions: Coming Out versus Passing in the Workplace

Abstract

Gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals face a lifetime of decisions concerning whether to come out and disclose their sexual orientation to others or to attempt to pass and keep their sexual orientation private. For lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults, the decision to disclose and claim their LGB identity in the workplace is a significant consideration with multiple possible implications. This article reviews literature regarding the decision to either come out or to pass in the workplace. A case study, with implications and suggestions for counselors, is presented.

KEYWORDS:

• affirmative counseling
• career counselors
• case study
• coming out
• self-disclosure