Exploring lesbian internalised homophobia and self-harming: A thematic analysis.

The article explores how internalised homophobia (IH)—defined as negative attitudes and feelings toward homosexuality in oneself and others—relates to self-harming behaviors and coping mechanisms within a lesbian population. Using qualitative thematic analysis of responses from 103 self-identified lesbian adults assigned female at birth, three main themes emerged: the role of sexuality on self-harm (including feelings of otherness, shame, and IH), the protective importance of the LGBTQ+ community (notably lesbian culture and belonging), and negative societal perceptions (such as stigma and misunderstanding linking self-harm and sexuality to attention-seeking). The study highlights that while IH and societal pressures contribute to psychological distress and self-harm, connection to lesbian community and self-acceptance serve as protective factors. Limitations include potential underrepresentation of closeted individuals with higher IH, suggesting further research is needed to inform culturally competent mental health care addressing IH in lesbians.