We need therefore we seek : information behavior of lesbians in Hong Kong

Abstract

Purpose - Previous research has explored the information needs of homosexual people for identity development and connecting to others, but neglected to study how they find information in response to their situations. Research has also indicated that gay people suffer from social marginalization and psychological distress, but failed to explore how they seek information to cope with these challenges. Moreover, no study has been conducted regarding lesbians in Hong Kong, a heterosexual-dominated Chinese society that emphasizes traditional family values and conformity to social norms. This study aims to pat1ially fill this research gap.

Methodology - Synthesizing sense-making and phenomenological approach. The present study examines Hong Kong lesbians ' information needs, seeking, and use in identity formation, psychological and social well-being. Live experiences of participants are collected through face-to-face in-depth interviews for analysis, followed by triangulation with data collected via pal1icipant observation and document analysis.

Findings - Results show that unlike findings indicated by previous study, informants of this study do not perceive virtual communication to be as secure and comfortable as their western counterparts do. As depicted in the thesis, informants in different situations have unique needs and different information behavior, e.g. whether they are single or in relationships; whether they are openly gay, completely in the closet, or half-way out; whether they have religious beliefs or focus on personal growth; whether they are advocators, participants, or bystanders of gay movements.

Results also indicate that although intertwined, psychological needs should be dealt with before needs in identity formation and social well-being, in order to boost exploration efficiency as well as receptivity of information sought. The relationships between trustworthiness, variety and reception of information are discussed based on informants' live experiences. Another finding worth noting is that affordance of the internet and abundance of data/information has been slowing down and interrupting information seeking, implying the importance of information literacy.

Recommendation - Recommendations are made to information providers based on informants' feedback. Specifically, the public libraries of Hong Kong should establish a discrete LGBT section with a wider variety of materials and convenient circulation policies to better serve the LGBT population in Hong Kong. Additionally, the Hong Kong LGBT community is suggested to establish an information centre for message dissemination, resource sharing, and mass mobilization. Furthermore, Lesbians are advised on how to improve the effectiveness of their information seeking. Further research - Further research is suggested to investigate how lesbians of different socio-economic backgrounds seek information to fulfill their respective needs. It would be also interesting to study what settings and environment might provide rewarding information seeking experiences for sexual minorities.

Value - This study improves understandings of the thoughts, behavior, and attitudes of Hong Kong lesbians during their information seeking process to meet their needs. Life experiences of 5 Hong Kong lesbians are portrayed in detail by interactively presenting their questions asked and answers found. The findings are useful for people and professionals who have contact or work with this social group for better understanding, communication, and services.