Praying for Inclusion: Gay Men’s Experiences on Religious College Campuses

Abstract

Research on sexual minorities’ religious experiences largely focuses on faith-based challenges/supports, family dynamics, and identity conflicts–yet, there is limited research studying how these systems intersect with religious college campus and counseling experiences. This paper explores how 13 gay students at Christian and Jewish colleges narrated their campus challenges. Participants reported mental health concerns, limited campus counseling and peer support resources, and threats to personal and professional development. Alternatively, participants also reported mediating conflicts with positive counseling experiences, prayer and religious development, alternative support groups, college transfers and urban relocation post-graduation. The article concludes with a discussion of clinical applications and administrative implications.