“Where I Feel Most Accepted”: Creating Queer-Affirming Fraternity Environments and Experiences

This study focuses on what makes undergraduate fraternity chapters affirming for openly queer members. Although studies have been published on the demographics and experiences of non-heterosexual fraternity men, there needs to be more clarity regarding what makes chapter experiences welcoming and supportive for this population of members. Through qualitative grounded theory methodology with 10 study participants from Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp) Fraternity, this research found that diverse membership, leadership, and supportive interpersonal relationships contribute to an affirming chapter environment. The findings and recommendations share what fraternity undergraduate chapters can do to create and foster a queer-affirming environment.