Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on LGBT studies
Year: 2024
DOI:
[PDF]
Overcoming Internalized Homophobia: Shaping Authentic Leadership Among Gay Men in the United States
Tony Cohn
ABSTRACT:
This research explores how internalized homophobia shapes the leadership development of gay men in the United States. Using both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, the study examines the strategies participants use to navigate societal stigma and develop authentic leadership. The analysis identifies three key pathways: advocacy, self-acceptance, and community building. These journeys highlight how personal experiences, including overcoming self-rejection and societal pressures, shape leadership growth for gay men. The findings challenge traditional authentic leadership theory by highlighting the importance of external actions—like advocacy and community support—in fostering internal self-acceptance. Implications for organizational leadership include promoting advocacy, supporting selfacceptance, and facilitating community-building to create inclusive environments that nurture authentic leadership among marginalized individuals. By understanding these pathways, organizations can foster environments that empower individuals from historically excluded communities to embrace their authentic selves, enhancing both their leadership potential and overall organizational success. Furthermore, this research suggests that offering space for selfreflection and connection within professional development frameworks can enhance leadership capacities for those facing identity-based challenges. Ultimately, this study deepens understanding of leadership dynamics among gay men and underscores the value of inclusivity, self-acceptance, and external support in leadership development. The findings also contribute to broader discussions on social innovation, illustrating how organizations can leverage these insights to support the growth of authentic and resilient leadership in the workplace.
keywords: community-building; empowerment; identity-challenges; inclusive-leadership; LGBTQ+ resilience