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Older Gay Men and Their Support Convoys

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  • Griff Tester
  • Eric R. Wright

Abstract

Objective:We used the convoy model and the network type construct to identify the relationship quality profiles found among older gay men and to examine how they define a satisfactory network.Method:We used a network mapping strategy and in-depth qualitative interviews with 20 participants in Atlanta. During the interviews, all network members were discussed, regardless of relationship or map position.Results:For participants, having people in their lives with whom they could fully be “out” as gay men (authenticity) was at the root of a quality network. This allowed them to develop emotional closeness (intimacy), which, in part, provided a foundation of social support. Participants’ discussion of network quality, which reflected authenticity, intimacy, and social support, revealed high, moderate, and low quality network types.Discussion:Our findings diversify knowledge of the network type construct, provide a deeper understanding of its qualitative features, and give voice to this often-invisible group, situating meaning within their social-historical context. The findings suggest that the meaning of a quality network is contextual and culturally specific, varying across groups of older adults.

Suggested Citation

  • Griff Tester & Eric R. Wright, 2017. "Older Gay Men and Their Support Convoys," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 72(3), pages 488-497.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:geronb:v:72:y:2017:i:3:p:488-497.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/geronb/gbw052
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Shiovitz-Ezra, Sharon & Litwin, Howard, 2012. "Social network type and health-related behaviors: Evidence from an American national survey," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 75(5), pages 901-904.
    2. Wight, R.G. & LeBlanc, A.J. & De Vries, B. & Detels, R., 2012. "Stress and mental health among midlife and older gay-identified men," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 102(3), pages 503-510.
    3. Kristine J. Ajrouch & Alysia Y. Blandon & Toni C. Antonucci, 2005. "Social Networks Among Men and Women: The Effects of Age and Socioeconomic Status," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 60(6), pages 311-317.
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