Abstract:
This study investigates how social media influences Sri Lankans' perceptions of homosexuality. The study looks at how LGBTQ+ people in Sri Lanka have interacted with social media and how it has affected their sense of self, sense of community, and encounters with stigma and prejudice. The study also looks at how social media is utilised in Colombo to support or counteract anti-LGBTQ+ prejudice. Through a quantitative research phase, stratified random sampling surveyed 300 LGBTQ+ individuals (non-heterosexuals) in Colombo's metropolis. This approach, embracing diverse identities and experiences, bolsters research integrity. The survey explores social media use, stigma, prejudice, and its impact on identity. To gain more in-depth and nuanced insights into survey respondents' experiences with social media, the qualitative component conducts in-depth interviews with a sample of 30 survey respondents. The research further scrutinises the discourse and pertinent content pertaining to homosexuality within the realm of social media. It examines both the prevalence and content richness of pro-LGBTQ+ and anti-LGBTQ+ social media profiles. A thorough investigation including 300 LGBTQ+ people (non-heterosexuals) in the Colombo city revealed a startling 58% prevalence of discrimination. The research also explored the link between social media use and cultural constructs of homosexuality, accentuating the intricate interrelationship between digital platforms and conventional sexual orientation beliefs. The uncovered insights highlight the necessity of promoting accepting attitudes and provide crucial factors for the design of strategic initiatives to create a culture of acceptance and inclusion within Sri Lanka's LGBTQ+ population.
