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This study investigates the factors influencing the decision to disclose sexual orientation among LGBT+ individuals.

June 3, 2026Open Access

Associations Between Factors and the Decision to Disclose Sexual Orientation Among LGBT+ Individuals

Key Points

This study investigates the factors influencing the decision to disclose sexual orientation among LGBT+ individuals.
Utilized the Social Justice Sexuality Project (SJSP) dataset and 'When I Came Out' narratives.
Employed machine learning models and sentiment analysis to assess influencing factors.
Highlighted that family support significantly impacts the decision to come out.
Demonstrated that community connection plays a vital role in disclosure experiences.
Found that personal identity affirmation is crucial for the coming out process.

Abstract

Despite significant advancements in the acceptance and inclusion of the LGBT+ community, the process of disclosing one's sexual orientation, commonly known as ``coming out'', remains a deeply complex and individual experience. This study aims to investigate the multitude of factors that influence this decision among LGBT+ individuals. Utilizing the Social Justice Sexuality Project (SJSP) dataset and narratives from the `When I Came Out' repository, we examine sociodemographic, psychological, relational, and environmental determinants. Through machine learning models and sentiment analysis, our findings highlight the pivotal roles of family support, community connection, and personal identity affirmation in the coming out process. By providing a nuanced understanding of these factors, this research seeks to inform interventions and support mechanisms that promote mental health and societal acceptance for the LGBT+ community.

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