Coping with Workplace Stress by the Sri Lankan LGBTQ+ Community

Abstract

LGBTQ+ employees in Sri Lanka face workplace discrimination, as organizations lack adequate policies and practices to protect them from marginalization and vulnerability. Thus LGBTQ+ employees have to work under pressure and it affects their job satisfaction and performance. Sri Lankan LGBTQ+ studies are lacking due to challenges in finding respondents, overcoming social and cultural barriers, and gaining societal support. This study investigates workplace discrimination against LGBTQ+ employees in Sri Lanka, focusing on their feelings and perceptions. It also examines coping strategies for overcoming job stress and the best coping mechanisms for these employees. The research explores came out LGBTQ+ employees' experiences in Sri Lanka and potential solutions to workplace discrimination through a qualitative approach, interviewing eight respondents who experienced discrimination. The study findings reviled that LGBTQ+ employees are discriminated against in the workplace through social exclusion, sexual harassment, and hostile work settings. The research explored nine coping strategies practiced by the Sri Lankan LHBTQ+ employees and highlighted the four best strategies that were successful in Sri Lankan context. The studies’ findings provide significant insights for the organization's policymakers related to human resource management and scholars.