An Exploratory Study of the Experiences of Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Fraternity and Sorority Members Revisited

Authors

Douglas N. Case, San Diego State UniversityFollow
Grahaeme A. Hesp, Florida State UniversityFollow
Charles G. Eberly, Eastern Illinois UniversityFollow

Publication Date

August 2005

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25774/ga82-gt60

First Page

15

Last Page

31

Abstract

The lead author questioned over 500 self identified gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) fraternity and sorority members to assess their reasons for joining; how their membership affected their sexual identity development and intimate relationships; the degree of homophobia and heterosexism encountered; how sexual orientation affected the quality of their fraternal experiences; and the level of acceptance or rejection they faced. Many respondents were in the early phases of sexual identity development at the time they joined, and most chose to conceal their sexual orientation from their fellow members. This study details the reactions from fellow members, assesses satisfaction with the fraternity or sorority experience, and reports the level of involvement of GLB students in their fraternities or sororities.

Recommended Citation

Case, Douglas N.; Hesp, Grahaeme A.; and Eberly, Charles G. (2005) "An Exploratory Study of the Experiences of Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Fraternity and Sorority Members Revisited," Journal of Sorority and Fraternity Life Research and Practice: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25774/ga82-gt60
Available at: https://scholarworks.wm.edu/oracle/vol1/iss1/4