FRIENDSHIP IN THE LIVES OF GAY MEN AND LESBIANS

Results from a survey of 283 gay men and lesbians contradict some of t he findings of earlier research on gender differences in same-gender f riendships. Data from a variety of scales and items indicate that, whi le gay males and lesbians value casual, close and best friendships equ ally (similar to research findings on heterosexual men and women), the ir definitions and enactments of friendship also were similar (unlike other research which supports differences along gender lines). However , some gender differences did persist in the ways gay men and lesbians dealt with conflict and sexuality within friendships. The implication s of considering sexual orientation and gender in the study of friends hip are discussed in terms of theoretical, methodological and socio-po litical issues.