Abstract
Trends in the marriage and family therapy (MFT) field show that gay men access therapy at a rate two to four times greater
than their heterosexual counterparts. Thus, MFTs must be prepared to meet the needs of such clientele. Little research has
been conducted on male–male couple experiences and less has been conducted in Alaska. In this qualitative study involving
eleven participants we explored societal experiences and coping strategies of Alaskan male–male couples. Themes demonstrated
more non-supportive than supportive experiences, the use of families of choice as the primary means of coping, and mixed therapeutic
experiences.
than their heterosexual counterparts. Thus, MFTs must be prepared to meet the needs of such clientele. Little research has
been conducted on male–male couple experiences and less has been conducted in Alaska. In this qualitative study involving
eleven participants we explored societal experiences and coping strategies of Alaskan male–male couples. Themes demonstrated
more non-supportive than supportive experiences, the use of families of choice as the primary means of coping, and mixed therapeutic
experiences.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-18
- DOI 10.1007/s10591-011-9147-5
- Authors
- Markie L. C. Blumer, Marriage and Family Therapy Program, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Parkway, Box 453045, Las Vegas, NV 89154-3045, USA
- Megan J. Murphy, Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA USA
- Journal Contemporary Family Therapy
- Online ISSN 1573-3335
- Print ISSN 0892-2764