Discrimination in Work life: A Qualitative Research on LGBT+ Individuals

This study focuses on sexual orientation discrimination in the Turkish work life, which is a relatively less studied subject in Turkish literature. The study aims to determine the discriminatory behaviors against LGBT + individuals who are in active work life due to their sexual orientation if any. The study follows a qualitative research design. Based on an interview protocol, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 LGBT+ individuals using a snowball sampling method. Content analysis of the data emphasizes five distinct issues. First, it is determined that LGBT+ individuals in Turkish work life are subjected to formal discrimination in such as recruitment, dismissal processes. Findings also demonstrate that LGBT+ individuals are subject to informal discrimination through disdain, insult, etc. behaviors. Additionally, the findings of the study indicate a homophobic work environment in the Turkish context. Moreover, it is found that LGBT+ individuals use various mechanisms to cope with discriminatory behavior at the workplace, and mostly tend to conceal their sexual orientations. Finally, findings reveal that this process affects LGBT+ individuals in a negative way.