BACKGROUND/AIMS

Sexual health is one of the bases of physical, social and emotional health of individuals, couples, families and, therefore, societies.

MATERIAL and METHODS

This was a qualitative study which employed a in-depth interview 25 (Lezbiyen Gey Biseksu¨el Transgender) individuals in Turkey. Criterion sampling, one of the techniques of purposive sampling, was used as a qualitative sampling technique in the research. All participants were 18 years of age or older defined themselves as (Lezbiyen Gey Biseksu¨el Transgender) individuals, agreed to participate in the study, and completed all of the interview to set up the sampling. Participants were asked six open-ended questions. The interviews were, voice-recorded by the researcher. The technique of content analysis was used in data analysis. In this analysis, it was aimed to organize and interpret the qualitative data by means of specific categories and concepts. All information received from individuals were kept confidential to used as scientific data only. Before starting the study, written approval was obtained from the Scientific Ethics Committee and written consent from the participants.

RESULTS

As a result of the content analysis, nine major themes emerged: In this study, it has been determined that (Lezbiyen Gey Biseksu¨el Transgender) individuals have problems related to their sexual orientation or identity, they cannot express their wishes, feelings and thoughts easily, they have no freedom of life and they have to hide their sexual orientation or identity.

CONCLUSION

Challenges faced by (Lezbiyen Gey Biseksu¨el Transgender) people are associated with social norms, prejudice and discrimination. Nurses have a responsibility to serve as a change agent in the fight against discrimination and prejudice in society.

Keywords: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, sexual minority