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A Matrix of Marginalization: LGBT and Queer Women's Experiences in Nerd Spaces

Maynard, Tonya A.
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1493893323935791

Abstract Details

2017, Master of Arts (MA), Ohio University, Sociology (Arts and Sciences).
Through ethnographic research methods, this thesis investigates the lived experience of self-identified LGBT or queer women in nerd and geek cultural spaces. Collecting interview data from fan convention attendees, the researcher found five common themes central to the experiences of her respondents. Those themes were safety and sexuality, discrimination and prejudice based on sexual orientation and gender, community and welcoming, gender expression, and the importance of visibility and representation to marginalized social groups. Summarily, the researcher found that negative aspects of nerd and geek cultural spaces tend toward sexism rather than homophobia and transphobia, though both forms of exclusion are present in the subculture. These negative aspects of fan conventions in particular are endured by LGBT women in favor of the strong sense of community and acceptance by those who share their stigmatized statuses. Those interviewed also offered suggestions for creating a safer, more inclusive environment for all who may attend fan conventions.
Christine Mattley (Committee Chair)
Elizabeth Lee (Committee Member)
Rachel Terman (Committee Member)
93 p.
Gender; Gender Studies; Glbt Studies; Sociology; Womens Studies
Gender; Sexuality; LGBT Studies; Nerd Culture; Nerd Subculture; Nerd; Geek; LGBT Women; queer women; fan convention; fan culture

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Maynard, T. A. (2017). A Matrix of Marginalization: LGBT and Queer Women's Experiences in Nerd Spaces [Master's thesis, Ohio University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1493893323935791

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Maynard, Tonya. A Matrix of Marginalization: LGBT and Queer Women's Experiences in Nerd Spaces. 2017. Ohio University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1493893323935791.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Maynard, Tonya. "A Matrix of Marginalization: LGBT and Queer Women's Experiences in Nerd Spaces." Master's thesis, Ohio University, 2017. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1493893323935791

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

ohiou1493893323935791
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© 2017, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Ohio University and OhioLINK.