Volume_5_Issue_4_Digest

11 TPC Digest 11 TPC Digest Coming out is a decision-making process regarding disclosure of identity for sexual minorities. Existing literature on the coming-out process highlights a singular, linear emphasis, failing to highlight the recurring task of disclosure that sexual minorities endure. The purpose of this manuscript is to highlight the cyclical nature of the coming-out process and the importance of recognizing this cycle when counseling sexual minority clients. A case application is provided to illustrate the proposed cycle of coming out. Implications for counselors and suggestions for future research are discussed. Coming-out is a pivotal process in the lives of sexual minority (e.g., lesbian, gay, and bisexual) individuals. Beyond the internal process of development, coming out is an interpersonal, diverse process of disclosure. Sexual minorities face considerable personal dilemmas regarding coming out. Coming out may be a threatening process as stigmatization and marginalization are byproducts of sexual prejudice. Stressors include, but are not limited to, fears pertaining to acceptance, bullying, harassment, safety and oppression. Internal discord may prompt feelings of loneliness, disconnection, confusion, grief, shame, anger, fear, vulnerability and depression that lead to potential suicidal ideations. Although stressors exist, the decision to disclose one’s sexual minority identity may be enticing and empowering. From enduring the process, individuals may experience coming-out growth. During their lifetime, individuals may face various opportunities to disclose identity; each scenario may have unique implications that are essential to consider in regard to client safety. Individuals may react in a multitude of ways that include shock, hostility, confusion and disappointment. Regardless of a sexual minority’s internal awareness, acceptance and congruence, it is important to acknowledge the risk involved every time one chooses to disclose their identity, thus highlighting the cyclical, recurring decision- making process every time one discloses their identity. When counseling clients through the coming-out process, it is essential to recognize the social context encompassing each unique occurrence in the lifelong cycle of coming out. Counselor competence in working with sexual minority clients requires counselors to be affirmative, open and supportive, and to utilize holistic approaches in assisting clients through the coming- out process. In an effort to increase counselor awareness, knowledge, skills and overall effectiveness in assisting sexual minority clients, we propose that particular attention should be given to understanding the factors of coming out. The proposed cycle of coming out may assist in better preparing counselors to help sexual minority clients and may thus contribute to an increase in sexual minority competence overall. Therefore, this manuscript highlights the recurring process of disclosure as we (a) address the stressors and benefits of coming out, (b) outline the social layers of coming out, (c) examine strengths and limitations of current models pertaining to coming out, (d) emphasize the importance of addressing coming out in counseling, and (e) introduce the application of a cyclical framework of the coming-out process through a case illustration. Shainna Ali is a doctoral candidate at the University of Central Florida. Sejal Barden is an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida. Correspondence can be addressed to Shainna Ali, The University of Central Florida, 12494 University Blvd., Education Complex Suite 322, Orlando, FL 32816, shainnaali@knights.ucf.edu .