Pengalaman Pekerja Non-Normatif dalam Menyembunyikan Identitas Gender dan Menghadapi Diskriminasi Kerja The Experiences of Gender Nonconforming Workers in Concealing Their Gender Identity and Coping with Workplace Discrimination

Abstract

ABSTRAK: Penelitian ini bertujuan memahami pengalaman pekerja dengan orientasi seksual dan identitas gender non-normatif dalam menyembunyikan identitas serta menghadapi diskriminasi di tempat kerja heteronormatif. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif fenomenologi dengan metode Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara mendalam semi-terstruktur terhadap tiga partisipan yang bekerja di sektor formal di wilayah urban Indonesia. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penyembunyian identitas merupakan strategi bertahan yang adaptif dan rasional dalam 
merespons norma heteronormatif dominan di tempat kerja. Strategi ini dilakukan melalui pengendalian ekspresi diri, pengelolaan narasi personal, dan pembatasan relasi profesional. Meskipun berfungsi sebagai mekanisme perlindungan, penyembunyian identitas menimbulkan tekanan psikologis berkelanjutan berupa kelelahan emosional, kecemasan, dan perasaan terisolasi. Partisipan juga mengalami diskriminasi interpersonal dan struktural yang kerap dilegitimasi melalui norma profesional dan kewenangan organisasi. Resiliensi muncul melalui strategi coping internal dan relasional, namun bersifat defensif dan berlangsung 
dalam ruang agensi yang terbatas. Pada tingkat makna, pengalaman bekerja dimaknai sebagai perjuangan eksistensial untuk mempertahankan martabat dan keutuhan diri. Penelitian ini merekomendasikan peran aktif manajemen sumber daya manusia dalam mengembangkan kebijakan inklusif dan menciptakan lingkungan kerja yang aman secara psikologis bagi keberagaman identitas. 
Kata Kunci: Identitas Non-normatif, Diskriminasi Gender, Penyembunyian Identitas, Kesejahteraan Psikologis, Heteronormativitas 

ABSTRACT: This study aims to explore the experiences of workers with non-normative sexual 
orientations and gender identities in concealing their identities and confronting discrimination within heteronormative workplaces. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study utilizes Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with three participants employed in the formal sector in urban areas of Indonesia. The findings indicate that identity concealment functions as an adaptive and rational survival strategy in response to dominant heteronormative norms in the workplace. This strategy is enacted through the regulation of self expression, the management of personal narratives, and the limitation of professional relationships. Although identity concealment serves as a protective mechanism, it generates sustained psychological 
strain, including emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. Participants also experienced both interpersonal and structural forms of discrimination, which were frequently legitimized through professional norms and organizational authority. Resilience emerged through internal and relational coping strategies; however, it remained defensive in nature and operated within constrained spaces of agency. At the level of meaning, work was interpreted as an existential struggle to maintain dignity and personal integrity. This study recommends a proactive role for human resource management in developing inclusive policies and fostering psychologically safe work environments that support identity diversity.
Keywords: Non-Normative Identity, Gender Discrimination, Identity Concealment, Psychological Well Being, Heteronormativity