Perceived Career Barriers for Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Individuals

Abstract

This study examined career-related barriers that gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) individuals had encountered in the past and anticipated in the future and the degree of hindrance associated with future barriers. Two hundred forty-one GLB participants (126 women and 115 men) completed the Career Barriers Inventory-Revised and 11 additional items developed to address sexual orientation-related career barriers. Sexual orientation barriers were the third most highly anticipated future barriers and the second most hindering. Lesbian and bisexual women had encountered significantly more barriers related to sex discrimination, career-child conflict, and choosing nontraditional careers. They also anticipated more gender-role-related future barriers and expected more hindrance from gender and multiple role career barriers. There were no gender differences on sexual orientation barriers. GLB individuals encountered and anticipated career barriers similar to those encountered by heterosexual individuals while also anticipating barriers unique to their sexual orientation. © The Curators of the University of Missouri 2012.