Workplace Stigma-Related Experiences Among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Workers: Implications for Social Policy and Practice

Abstract

Employment discrimination against lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people is a significant social welfare problem. This quantitative study examines the extent of discrimination among a sample of LGB workers in Chicago. Using a convenience sample (N = 215) of LGB workers, ages 18 to 64, experiences of LGB workers were examined with several existing measures. Findings of the study were that stigma experiences differ by certain demographic characteristics. Work is an important part of our lives, yet many LGB workers are prevented from full participation in the workplace due to stigma-related experiences.

KEYWORDS:

• bisexual
• discrimination
• employment
• gay
• harassment
• lesbian
• stigma
• worker

Notes

*p < .05.