Sexual Identity Development Among Queer Chinese International Students in the United States

This qualitative study used an intersectional lens and thematic analysis to investigate (a) how queer Chinese international students understood and described their sexual identity and (b) how cultural transition affected their sexual identity development. Data were gathered through semistructured interviews with 13 queer Chinese international students in the United States. Participants discussed their queer identity development as they acculturated to the United States. Three themes were identified: (a) negotiating identity in the diaspora, (b) coming out in a cross-cultural context, and (c) cultural conflict and acceptance. As queer and Chinese internationals, participants emphasized fluidity of their intersectional identity while navigating multiple, often conflicting, cultural and social expectations. They understood sexual identity development as a multifaceted, fluid process operating within shifting sociopolitical contexts (e.g., Chinese, United States, global). Study implications included affirming nondisclosure of sexual identity and finding adaptive self-narrative and community to enhance authenticity to oneself and belongingness.