A Content Analysis of LGBTQ Qualitative Research in Counseling: A Ten‐Year Review

Abstract

This content analysis examines the qualitative methodology used in counseling research with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) issues published over the last 10 years (1998–2008) in 4 counseling and counseling psychology journals (Journal of Counseling & Development, Journal of Counseling Psychology, Journal of LGBT Issues In Counseling, and The Counseling Psychologist). LGBTQ qualitative investigations in counseling research continue to be rare. Recommendations to increase the trustworthiness and scope of future LGBTQ counseling research are provided.

A 15‐Year Content Analysis of Three Qualitative Research Traditions

“…Recent scholarship highlights practice standards in qualitative research, such as the alignment of methodology and reporting (i.e., coherence; Hays & Wood, 2011;Kline, 2008;Singh & Shelton, 2011), operationalization of credible practice (Flynn & Korcuska, 2018a, 2018b, methodological rigor (Hays, Wood, Dahl, & Kirk-Jenkins, 2016), and publishing guidelines (e.g., Choudhuri, Glauser, & Peregoy, 2004;Kline, 2008). In addition, content analyses (e.g., Arredondo et al, 2005;Berrios & Lucca, 2006;Singh & Shelton, 2011;Woo & Heo, 2013) provide an overview of author and sample demographics, as well as selected research approaches characteristic of qualitative studies. To date, the literature lacks (a) analysis of the style in which specific qualitative traditions are employed in counseling research and (b) how similar traditions are distinct and how they overlap in terms of methods and procedures.…”

Illuminating the On‐Campus Experience of LGBTQ Students Through Photovoice

“…Developing a working knowledge of the lived experiences of LGBTQ students within and outside of the campus environment, as well as strategies for identifying and addressing challenges that LGBTQ students may be encountering, is an essential competency. Although these opportunities might challenge counselors who might not have received adequate training to engage in counseling with LGBTQ students (Singh & Shelton, 2011), answering the call of ethical and competent practice means gaining awareness, knowledge, sensitivity, and specific skills pertinent to working with LGBTQ clients (A. Harper et al, 2013). College counselors can lead by example by seeking education regarding the current issues affecting this population, engaging in ongoing conversations with LGBTQ individuals and groups, and embracing opportunities to serve as LGBTQ allies (A. Harper et al, 2013).…”

“…An important component when conducting qualitative research regarding LGBTQ issues is researcher reflexivity (Singh & Shelton, 2011). This collaboration was initially established by the first (a faculty member in a counselor education program) and second (the lead university administrator of a student services center) authors, both of whom self‐identify as White, heterosexual, cisgender women and LGBTQ allies.…”

“…Counselors are experts in harnessing the personal narratives of underserved students, while paying specific attention to challenges that may negatively affect individuals’ psychosocial development (Lee & Rodgers, 2009). Furthermore, counseling researchers have called for more LGBTQ‐focused qualitative inquiries that make use of diverse research traditions and emphasize trustworthiness (Singh & Shelton, 2011).…”

Is there a Gay Advantage in Creativity?

“…There needs to be a shift in paradigm from the disease model of homosexuality to studying the positive functioning of sexual minority. This would be a more balanced approach in the studies regarding homosexual individuals (Brown, 1989) and by addressing the missing gaps in other related aspects of homosexuals (Singh & Shelton, 2011;Voorhis & Wagner, 2002;Yarhouse, 2012).…”