THE CONSTRUCTION OF AUTHENTIC SELF-ESTEEM AMONG SEXUAL AND GENDER DIVERSE INDIVIDUALS IN THE SOUTHERN BORDER PROVINCES OF THAILAND: A COMPARATIVE QUALITATIVE CASE STUDY
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Abstract
This study aims to describe the development of authentic self-esteem among sexually and gender-diverse individuals as a means of promoting gender equality in a southern border province. Purposive sampling was used to select 12 key informants from four provinces: Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and participant observation and analysed using inductive thematic and interpretive analyses. The study identified six themes associated with the construction of authentic self-esteem among LGBTQ+ individuals: creating inspiration, achieving success, developing authentic self-esteem, addressing conditions and challenges, promoting gender equality, and constructing the social dimensions of authentic self-esteem. The study concludes that self-esteem among individuals with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations develops through the realisation of personal potential, the promotion of equality, and the acceptance and expression of gender diversity. The findings further indicate that the construction of authentic self-esteem at the family, community, and societal levels is closely associated with the beliefs, religious traditions, and cultural practices of Buddhist and Muslim gender-diverse groups.
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