Exploring challenges faced by homosexual youths and their parents in Driekoppies, Enhlanzeni District, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

Abstract

Homosexuality is still not acceptable in many societies where homosexuals are being discriminated against, harassed and rejected by their peers and families. The purpose of this study was to investigate challenges faced by youths and their parents in Driekoppies village. The study adopted a qualitative approach using an exploratory survey design. Snowball sampling was used to select 10 participants. Individual, face-to-face, in-depth interviews were used to collect data. The data from the interviews were analysed through content analysis. This process entails exploring the general sense of data and identifying patterns that emerge as themes. The study found that homosexual youths and their parents are still experiencing marginalisation, discrimination, sexual abuse and harassment. The study concluded that it is through respecting the rights of others, as stated in the Bill of Rights, that good norms and values of the society must be maintained.. The study made some recommendations such as introducing peer education programs and awareness campaigns for educating communities about homosexuality.

Keywords: Homosexuality, discrimination, rejection, lesbian, cultural background, harassment