Abstract

While a large body of literature exists on homosexual students at higher education institutions (HEIs), very little research has been conducted in Ghana. This qualitative study explores the experiences of homosexual students in Ghanaian HEIs, employing both heteronormative theory and Meyer’s minority stress model to provide a comprehensive understanding of their challenges. We utilized the snowball sampling technique to recruit twelve university students in Ghana who self-identify as homosexuals. Using thematic analysis, the study findings were reported under three themes: forms of negative attitudes toward homosexuals, the effect of homophobia on homosexual students, and coping strategies to deal with homophobia. The findings demonstrate that homosexual students experience a range of homophobic attacks perpetrated by both students and faculty through derogatory name-calling, sexual harassment, and cyberbullying. These negative attitudes, rooted in the heteronormative culture of Ghanaian society, contribute to significant minority stress, leading to adverse mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and lower academic performance. However, homosexual students cope with such harassment through strategies like limiting contact with prospective aggressors, feigning heterosexuality, and remaining silent in situations that might trigger abuse. The study recommends the provision of mental health support services and the training of staff and students on LGBTQ+ issues to enhance inclusivity in Ghanaian HEIs.