Page 337 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

orientations employ personalised social media platforms to foster connections

with like-minded individuals.

The outcomes of the survey underscored that the principal advantages derived

from leveraging social media for the propagation of the identity of
homosexuality, pertain to fostering social inclusion authentically, unmasking

one's non-heterosexual orientation without pretense, increased visibility and
awareness of LGBT+ issues (74%), the ability to connect with like-minded

individuals (62%), and the opportunity to express oneself freely (55%).

However, participants also reported some challenges associated with using
social media including the fear of being identified and facing discrimination

(58%), exposure to negative comments and hate speech (42%), and the
potential for negative impact on mental health (32%).

6.2. Qualitative Results

The semi-structured interviews were used to provide more in-depth insights

into the experiences and perceptions of the participants regarding the role of
social media in promoting their identities as LGBT+ individuals in Sri Lanka.

Thematic analysis of the interview data revealed three main themes. The first

theme was "Visibility and Awareness." Participants discussed the role of
social media in increasing the visibility and awareness of LGBT+ issues in Sri

Lanka. Participants highlighted that social media provided a platform to
express their identities and raise awareness about LGBT+ rights and issues in

Sri Lanka. One participant stated, "Social media has helped us to show people
that we exist and that we have rights." The second theme was "Challenges and
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