Abstract
This chapter covers the pivotal process of coming out in the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals, including the construction, declarations, and consolidation of identities that incorporate a sexual and/or gender minority orientation. Beginning with a general review of how identities are formed through social interactions, the chapter covers coming out during adolescent and young adult years, mid-life, and older adulthood. Similarities and differences between experiences of gay males, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender individuals are explored as well as the experiences of LGBTQ individuals from the lens of intersectionality and various environmental contexts: rural versus urban settings; racial, ethnic, and cultural identities; socioeconomic status; and the opportunities and constraints posed by close family relationships. Well-established models that provide structural, stage-based descriptions of the coming out process are reviewed as well as some of the exciting ways contemporary LGBT identities are being mediated via online and social media access.