The Dynamics of Sexual Minority Status and Associated Stigma among University Undergraduate Students at Laikipia University

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence of non-heteronormative identities and the associated stigma experienced by undergraduate students at Laikipia University, Kenya. Amidst a contested legal and social landscape, this research provides critical empirical data on a "hidden" student population. Grounded in Minority Stress Theory and Social Identity Theory, the study utilized a descriptive survey design with snowball sampling to recruit 194 undergraduate students. Findings indicate that while 91.7% of respondents identify as heterosexual, a significant minority (8.3%) identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other non-heterosexual identities. The study reveals a hostile campus climate characterized by high rates of verbal harassment (87.6%) and instances of physical assault in off-campus housing. Crucially, data on identity management shows a sharp disparity in disclosure: students are significantly more likely to be "out" to peers than to family members, reflecting a strategic response to the threat of rejection. The paper concludes that "institutional silence" exacerbates minority stress and recommends the implementation of explicit anti-discrimination policies, safe zones, and inclusive curriculum reforms to align university practice with the constitutional mandate of non-discrimination.