Abstract

This purpose of this meta-summary study was to integrate the findings of the heterogeneous qualitative research on the factors influencing the sexual identity formation process of lesbian, gay, and bisexual groups in Korea. The integrative investigation of the universal or unique factors affecting the identity formation of sexual minority is important to understand their internal experiences and to support psychological adaptation. Using a qualitative meta-summary, this study systematically identified psychological and social factors that promote and impede sexual identity acceptance and integration of LGB individuals. First, a total of 9 studies were identified through research database published in Korea up to 2021. The included studies were critically evaluated by using the Critical Appraisal Screening Programme tool. A total of 179 statements were extracted from the findings of each study and 34 abstracted statements were generated. The 34 abstracted statements were categorized into four groups, psychological factors that promote or impede sexual identity formation and social factors that promote and impede it. These four main categories and corresponding factors in each category were explained. The implications and limitations were also discussed.