A Qualitative Exploration of Information and Communication Technology Use among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Emerging Adult Migrants Before and After Arrival in the United States

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have been shown to facilitate LGBTQ+ emerging adult development as well as international migration. Nonetheless, few studies have examined pre- and post-migration ICT use among LGBTQ+ emerging adult migrants. To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted online interviews with 37 LGBTQ+ individuals (ages 20–25) who migrated from various countries to different U.S. states. Constructivist grounded theory was used to identify four themes: In and out: Balancing identity exploration with identity concealment when using ICTs in the country of origin; relying on ICTs to prepare for migration to the United States; using ICTs to find housing, work, and friends in the United States; and drawbacks of using ICTs in the United States. ICTs facilitated identity development and eased integration but exposed participants to harassment and scams. Findings indicate that closely investigating ICT use can enhance developmental and migration theories, improve research, and inform programs and services.

Experiences of COVID‐19 pandemic‐related stress among sexual and gender minority emerging adult migrants in the United States

“…In this study, we used it as a realist and constructionist method, reporting on meanings and realities attached to participant experiences and the ways these meanings and realities are shaped by social forces (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Analysis began with the second author (SPC) familiarising themself with the data, including previous codes that were developed from the larger study (Alessi et al, 2022).…”

“…This qualitative study was part of a larger study that explored how ICTs facilitated resettlement and integration for this population (Alessi et al., 2022 ). Results of the larger study illuminated the role of ICTs across participants' migration trajectory.…”

“…In this study, we used it as a realist and constructionist method, reporting on meanings and realities attached to participant experiences and the ways these meanings and realities are shaped by social forces (Braun & Clarke, 2006 ). Analysis began with the second author (SPC) familiarising themself with the data, including previous codes that were developed from the larger study (Alessi et al., 2022 ). In the current study, codes were generated inductively (i.e., new codes were added to the codebook) and deductively (i.e., codes that were already identified, but not used as part of the larger study, were further explored to discern relevance to the current study's research questions).…”