Narratives of Gay Relationship Development and Commitment

Abstract

This study was designed to highlight key narratives and themes that might have contributed to long-term romantic relationship development and commitment among gay men. A group of research participants living in the San Francisco Bay Area participated in a guided imagery exercise, a semi-structured interview, and a feedback meeting. Qualitative data analysis was conducted through narrative analysis. The main themes that emerged included First Impressions, Deepening Relationship, Stigma and Prejudice, Coming out to Self, Coming out to Family, Intimacy and Sexuality, and Relationship Commitment. By describing these themes, this study documents key experiences in gay men’s lives, breaking the silence about gay relationships, and the experiences that shape them. Research participants described the experience of telling their relationship stories while participating as therapeutic. The findings have implications for evidence-based practice with gay men in relationships.