Changers and the Changed: Moral Aspects of Coming Out in Physical Education

Brenda Jo Light Bredemeier, Ellen Brooke Carlton, Laura Ann Hills, Carole Ann Oglesby

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In this paper we draw from interviews with four lesbian sportswomen and physical educators whose personal journeys inform us about the difficulties and rewards of challenging homophobia and heterosexism. Our co-participants discussed their life stories in terms of the interrelationships among sport, moral, and lesbian identities and their coming out process. Analyses of these narrations revealed three major themes associated with coming out in sport and physical education settings: integrity, compassion, and community. Each of these themes is discussed in terms of our co-participants' experiences and interpretations of moving from fear and isolation to a sense of community and empowerment.
Original languageAmerican English
JournalQuest
Volume51
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 11 1999

Disciplines

  • Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • Sociology
  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Sports Studies

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