Using the Common Ingroup Identity Model to Understand Public Attitudes and Acceptance of Gay People in Singapore

Introduction: This study draws on the common ingroup identity model to explore Singaporeans’ understandings of the gay community. We introduce national identity as a key aspect of the common ingroup identity and emphasize the influences of two culturally significant aspects of contemporary Singapore society: authoritarianism and multiculturalism. Methods: In March and April 2021, we conducted online focus group discussions with Singaporeans who are supportive, neutral, and opposed to the repealing of the section of the penal code that criminalizes consensual sexual activity between adult men (s377a). Results: We found that national identity plays a critical and complex role in shaping people’s attitudes toward and acceptance of gay Singaporeans. Analyses of participants’ responses suggest that emphasizing this common ingroup national identity helps to preserve the status quo in relation to this contentious issue. That is, a salient national identity tends to downplay the significance of sexual identity in social interactions, which could help to preserve conservative Singaporean values. Within the frame of national identity, multiculturalism tended to increase people’s tolerance of different beliefs while also motivating people to avoid interpersonal conflicts. Meanwhile, authoritarianism works as an inhibitor of political action toward social change, as it aligns with Singaporeans’ low political efficacy and low political participation to foster passive and conservative political attitudes on issues related to homosexuality. Conclusions: The CIIM is useful for analyzing how common ingroup identities shape public understanding of homosexuality. The common national identity influences Singaporeans’ understanding of homosexuality and their views of the gay community. Policy Implications: Although multiculturalism, as a national policy, is mainly used to improve racial relationships in Singapore, it also has the potential to go beyond racial issues to increase public support for gender and sexual minorities. However, due to Singapore’s authoritarian social and political context, the extent to which multiculturalism can benefit these groups depends on the government’s willingness to expand the meaning of this concept in its policymaking.