The Experiences of Lesbian and Bisexual Women in College Residence Halls

Abstract

SUMMARY In-depth interviews were conducted with ten lesbian and bisexual women university students to learn about their experiences living in college residence halls. Many of the women reported experiencing a hostile environment as a result of direct and indirect harassment and lack of support from roommates, resident assistants, and other residents. Participants also reported supportive factors that helped to make the environment more comfortable. In particular, these students appreciated residence life staff who actively confronted homophobic acts and showed their support by providing information on lesbian, gay, and bisexual topics. Interviewees provided suggestions for improving the climate in residence halls and for training residence hall staff to work more effectively with lesbian, gay, and bisexual students. Implications are offered for addressing homophobia and heterosexism in women's residence halls.