ABSTRACT
Introduction
Young adults in Indonesia who identify as men attracted to men face intense pressure to conform to heteronormative expectations, particularly regarding marriage. During quarter-life crisis, this pressure often leads to internal conflict and emotional distress.
Aim
This study explored how these individuals perceive marriage and how such perceptions impact their mental and emotional well-being during a critical life transition.
Methods
A qualitative phenomenological approach guided by Colaizzi’s method was used. Ten participants aged 22–29 were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted in Bandung, Indonesia and analysed thematically.
Discussion
Participants reported psychological tension arising from the clash between personal identity and societal expectations. Emotional suppression and spiritual guilt were common. Trust in mental health services was limited due to prior stigma.
Limitations
Findings are context-specific and based on a small, urban sample of Muslim participants. Cross-cultural generalisability is limited.
Implications
Mental health nurses must address identity-related distress with cultural humility and emotional safety.
Recommendations
Nursing education and practice should prioritise inclusive assessment, spiritual care and stigma-free environments.
Relevance Statement
This study provides critical insight into how young men navigating same-sex attraction in Indonesia experience emotional conflict during early adulthood due to cultural and religious pressures to marry. These findings highlight the urgent need for inclusive, identity-affirming and culturally sensitive approaches in mental health nursing. By understanding the unique psychological vulnerabilities of this group, mental health nurses can deliver more compassionate, ethical and effective care, reduce stigma in practice settings and contribute to the development of safe, non-judgemental spaces for all clients regardless of sexual or spiritual identity.