Friends, the Internet, Porn, and Sexual Partners: A Qualitative Content Analysis of the Ways That Gay Men Learned About Sex

Sexual education in the United States is rich and complex, yet it has centered heterosexual sexual practices with parents and schools playing a critical, and often judgmental role. This study aimed to explore the different ways that gay men learned about their sexual orientation and sexual behaviors, outside the traditional mechanisms. Data from N = 19 one-on-one interviews were analyzed using the iterative procedures associated with inductive qualitative content analysis. Findings showed the use of four major (discussions with friends, internet use, viewing pornography, and conversations with sexual partners), and four minor (viewing media, talking to professionals, discussions with trusted family members, and conversations with social acquaintances) learning mechanisms that helped them learn in detail about their sexual orientation, and sexual behaviors. These mechanisms occurred in two frameworks (in-person and digital media). Ultimately, these avenues facilitated opportunities for open, honest, uninhibited, and judgement free discussions and learning about sexual orientation and sexual behaviors.