Experiences of South Asian LGBTQ+ Asylum Seeking Men in the United States: A Qualitative Inquiry

This dissertation study utilized a basic qualitative research design alongside the theory of intersectionality to examine the lived experiences of South Asian LGBTQ+ asylum seekers in the United States. Five participants, who self-identified as men, were found to be eligible for the study and participated in semi-structured individual interviews with an optional focus group interview. Findings of the study included three major themes: 1) navigating spaces with non-dominant identities; 2) moving beyond survival towards thriving; and 3) evolving relationship with self. Each of these themes was best explained through three subthemes across the temporal points of pre-migration, early migration, and post-migration years. The theory of intersectionality was found to be a useful framework to conceptualize the experiences of South Asian LGBTQ+ asylum seeking men in the US. Clinical implications and advocacy recommendations for mental health practitioners and service providers who work with South Asian LGBTQ+ asylum seeking men in the US are provided. Recommendations for future research, counselor education and supervision, as well as limitations of the study are also discussed.

Author

• Jain, Kshipra

Language

• en

Keyword

• intersectionality
• asylum
• LGBTQ+
• mental health
• South Asian
• qualitative research

Date created

• 2022

Type of Work

• Dissertation

License

• All rights reserved

Rights statement

• In Copyright

GW Unit

• Counseling

Degree

• Ph.D.

Advisor

• Marotta-Walters, Sylvia A.

Committee Member(s)

• Ali, Arshad I.
• Attia, Mina M.

Persistent URL

•  https://scholarspace.library.gwu.edu/etd/r494vm112