Is it possible to question asylum seekers who assert they are gay or bisexual in a sensible and sensitive way? The DSSH model (‘Difference, Stigma, Shame and Harm’) is a model developed by Chelvan of No 5 Chambers to enable the asylum applicant an ability to address their individual narrative by asking specific ‘trigger questions’, to enable further investigation.

1. There is no template
questionnaire: No list of
questions………
NOT LIVING A
HETEROSEXUAL
NARRATIVE
1

2. DIFFERENCE
STIGMA
SHAME
HARM

3. DIFFERENCE
3
 Recognition that not like other ‘boys/girls’ with respect to
personal sex gender role development
 Gradual recognition of attraction to members of same-
sex/opposite sex
 Gradual recognition of gender difference in gender identity
claims/intersex claims
 May have commencement of same-sex conduct
 Recognition that this ‘difference’ sets LGBTIs apart from
straight people
 Recognition and association with other LGBTIs – the other -
group differentiated identification
 Not living a ‘heterosexual’ narrative.

4. STIGMA
4
 Recognition that close family members/friends disapprove of
conduct/identity
 Recognition that the ‘majority’ does not accept/disapproves of
the conduct/identity of the LGBTI individual
 Recognition of state/cultural/religious mores/laws which are
directed towards LGBTIs.

5. SHAME
5
 Impact of STIGMA
 Feelings associated with isolation
 Impact of being the ‘other’ rather than the ‘same’

6. HARM
6
 State harm – criminalisation
 Fear of arrest/detention/torture
 Non-state agent harm - mob violence
 Family – honour killing

7. HARM
6
 State harm – criminalisation
 Fear of arrest/detention/torture
 Non-state agent harm - mob violence
 Family – honour killing