Between the dog and the wolf: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of bicultural, sexual minority people’s lived experiences

Abstract

Previous research has established that people with multiple-minority identities frequently wrestle with psychosocial dilemmas in ingroup and outgroup settings, which can impair health and impede a positive belonging. The present study explores the phenomenon of psychosocial implications found in the intersection of sexuality and ethnicity from the perspective of bicultural, sexual minority individuals in Sweden, a multiple-minority group that thus far has not received scientific consideration. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight non-heterosexual, second-generation immigrants in Sweden. Data was analyzed through a collaborative interpretative phenomenological analysis. Two overarching group experiential themes (GETs) were created: “A puzzle of identity struggles” and “Sources of empowerment.” The GETs detail experiences of bullying, misidentification, parental shortcomings, gender issues, and severe mental health challenges, as well as strengthening factors in the participants’ lived experiences, including pride in heritage, creative coping strategies and purpose in life. The lines between general stressors and minority-specific stressors were blurred, which problematizes simplified understandings of multiple-minorities. The authors advocate for advances in multiple-minority knowledge among professionals within the educational and mental health systems, to facilitate preventive and interventive work that could improve life conditions and sense of belonging among non-heterosexual, ethnic minorities.