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Minimization of the Hidden Injuries of Sexual Identity: Constructing Meaning of Out Campus LGB Life

Fine, Leigh E.
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1216151322

Abstract Details

2008, Master of Arts, Ohio State University, Sociology.
The concept of hidden injuries was first described by Sennett and Cobb (1972) in reference to minority class statuses, though this concept can be applied to sexual minorities. Although universities are historically spaces where sexual identity issues are explored, identifying as non-heterosexual can impact the lives of college students, inflicting hidden injuries that are not readily apparent, but that have lasting consequences for the targets of heterosexism and homophobia. Sixteen out lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) college students were asked how they make meaning of incidences of heterosexism and the campus climate. A focus group was conducted with three of the individual interview participants, exploring similar questions. An analysis of the students' responses yielded four general themes. First, the overwhelming majority of students tended to minimize incidences of heterosexism and homophobia in their lives. Second, there was a desire on the part of many respondents to support heteronormativity and develop an identity apart from, rather than integrated with, sexual identity. Third, the campus climate was generally portrayed as positive, though typically in reference to less-supportive milieus. Finally, among some participants, there was the potential for resisting heterosexism, suggesting that the damage done by these hidden injuries can be countered.
Liana Sayer, PhD (Committee Chair)
Steven Lopez, PhD (Committee Member)
Townsand Price-Spratlen, PhD (Committee Member)
46 p.
Sociology
gay; lesbian; bisexual; LGB; college; college students; university; university students; homophobia; heterosexism

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Fine, L. E. (2008). Minimization of the Hidden Injuries of Sexual Identity: Constructing Meaning of Out Campus LGB Life [Master's thesis, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1216151322

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Fine, Leigh. Minimization of the Hidden Injuries of Sexual Identity: Constructing Meaning of Out Campus LGB Life. 2008. Ohio State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1216151322.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Fine, Leigh. "Minimization of the Hidden Injuries of Sexual Identity: Constructing Meaning of Out Campus LGB Life." Master's thesis, Ohio State University, 2008. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1216151322

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

osu1216151322
743
© 2008, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by The Ohio State University and OhioLINK.