Date of Conferral

2-26-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Marisa Bryant

Abstract

The experiences of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) persons working in law enforcement were examined in this qualitative research. While the workplace is often seen as a collaborative setting and efforts to accomplish shared objectives without discrimination or prejudice, this is not always true for LGBTQ law enforcement personnel. This research focused on gender identity and sexual orientation to highlight the difficulties as well as discrimination and harassment which can negatively impact LGBTQ officers’ general well-being. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews from a sample of 11 LGBTQ law enforcement officers in the Pee Dee Region. Date was analyzed by manual coding. The results showed that discrimination and harassment does impact many officers in the workplace. More specifically the experiences of discrimination and harassment in the workplace, coping with the experience, emotions of opening up, and the impact on careers. This study adds to the body of research on LGBTQ discrimination in law enforcement, offering insights that may guide legislative reforms, training initiatives, and support systems to cater to the unique requirements of LGBTQ police. The results of the study may be used to advance a workplace culture in law enforcement that values and accepts all people and provides them with equal chances, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and to contribute to positive social change by increasing acceptance, advocacy, improving rights, developing policies to protect, and normalizing the coming out of LGBT individuals.

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