The personal and familiar experiences of female homosexuals are provided. Six females (22 to 33 years old) from Caxias do Sul RS Brazil, and neighboring region, whose family members were aware of their sexual orientation, were interviewed. Females were single, middle-class socio-economic level, with professional activity. A qualitative content analysis of the interviews produced several thematic categories and subcategories. Homosexuality, as a rule, considered normal and natural, brought happiness to participants in spite of the bias they had to face. From their point of view, their families' first reaction to their sexual orientation was negative, although, in some cases, it improved with the passing of time. Results revealed a social change, albeit slow and gradual, in the way of thinking and acting towards female homosexuality. The need for psychological intervention through programs for families and for homosexual subjects is required.
Female homosexuality; personal and familiar experiences
