Understanding and Challenging Stigma toward ... - Pact Cambodia

Annex A:2
Men who Have Sex with Men
Frequently Asked Questions
When do gay MSM become open about their sexual identity?
Becoming open about, or disclosing, one’s sexual identity is not a one-off event, but
rather a lifelong process. It starts with getting to know yourself and continues with
every person you meet. When you change jobs or move to another town, you have
to decide whether to disclose or not, and to whom. It usually depends on the level of
self-acceptance and level of support in the new environment. Some may be open to
family and friends, but not to co-workers, and some may only be open to friends.
There is no specific age for coming out. Some people come out much younger, some
much older – even after having been married – and some do not come out at all,
because it is too dangerous. Coming out is a choice, not a must!
Most MSM realize their sexual orientation and gender identity as teenagers. Some have
felt this way since they were little, but were unable to understand it. It is often when
friends start having their first sexual feelings or encounters that MSM youth find out that
they are different. This can put them in a difficult position because most young people
want to belong to a group and to be accepted. Discovering that they are different can
be traumatic.
How many MSM are there?
Research studies have suggested that between 2 percent and 10 percent of the human
population have a sexual orientation that is not heterosexual. MSM are found in many
walks of life, among all racial groups, at all socioeconomic levels, and in every country
around the world.
Do MSM hate the opposite sex?
No. Most MSM simply desire loving relationships with men. They are not MSM because
they hate the opposite sex. Most MSM have good relationships with the opposite sex.
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