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Explorations of lesbian-queer genders
Heidi M Levitt1, Sharon G Horne
1a Clinical Psychology at the University of Memphis , USA.
Journal of Lesbian Studies
|May 9, 2014
Summary
Gender expression significantly impacts queer women's lives, influencing their identity, social interactions, and experiences with discrimination within the lesbian community. Butch-femme identities play a key role in these dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Gender Studies
- Psychology
Background:
- Queer women's experiences are shaped by complex social dynamics.
- Gender expression, particularly within butch-femme identities, influences community norms.
- Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing discrimination and fostering inclusivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how gender expression affects queer women's identity formation.
- To examine the influence of gender expression on social interactions and discrimination.
- To assess the impact of butch-femme gendering within a queer women's community.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 149 queer women in a southeastern U.S. community.
- Data collected included age of awareness of sexual orientation and gender expression.
- Experiences of discrimination and the importance of gender expression in social interactions were assessed.
Main Results:
- Gender expression correlates with the age of sexual orientation and gender expression awareness.
- Butch and femme identities influence social interactions and discrimination experiences.
- The valuing of butch-femme identification is linked to gender expression.
Conclusions:
- Gender expression is a significant factor in queer women's lived experiences.
- Butch-femme dynamics shape identity, social interactions, and discrimination.
- Further research can inform supportive community practices for queer women.
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