The Role of Generational Communication Differences in the Development of a Positive Gay Midlife Identity

Abstract

This study draws upon interviews and thematic analysis to explore the role of gay midlife men’s perceived communication differences from their younger counterparts in the formation of a positive age identity. Utilizing the identity process theory as a sensitizing framework, interviews with 40 midlife gay men (aged 40–53) addressed participants’ perceptions of generational communication differences that had positively contributed to gay age identity formation. Coding resulted in three themes of communication difference: communicative finesse, face-to-face orientation, and masculine expression. The themes contribute to an expanded understanding of the role of communication in positive perceptions of gay midlife.