Career Development and Family Support Among Sexual Minorities: A Psychology of Working Perspective

This study expands our understanding of how family mechanisms of marginalization and support shape the career development of sexual minorities. Guided by the Psychology of Working Theory, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 Israeli sexual minority young adults. Consensual qualitative research analysis identified five domains: exclusion, barriers, family support, resilience and growth, and identity-work and social roles. Findings highlight the profound effects of exclusionary experiences, particularly within the family, on career development, exacerbating issues such as shame, strained family relationships, and disrupted developmental tasks. Family support and acceptance promoted career development and personal growth, whereas societal and familial rejection hindered career exploration and fostered negative self-perceptions. Our findings highlight the need for family education on the acceptance of young adults as they are and support their career choices. They also underscore the need for comprehensive support systems empowering sexual minorities to navigate their career development while safeguarding their psychological well-being.