The Impact of Heteronormativity on Queer Relationships

Presenter

Genevieve Rose Young

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Leda Cooks, Department of Communication, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C21, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 3 (C21-C30) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to demonstrate the internalization of heteronormativity and its existence as a barrier that has to be overcome by queer couples. There is a presence of a clear heterosexual “norm” in society, and it is theorized that when people perceive queer relationships they try and do so through a heteronormative perspective. This lens is internalized, to some degree, by all those socialized in mainstream society. Therefore it is held by all people, including members of the queer community. This then impacts how they love their partners and express themselves. Five qualitative interviews were conducted with queer couples exploring the impact of heteronormative gender roles framework on their relationship. In the project report, each case study description is preceded by a photograph of the couple that was interviewed. The reader is prompted to evaluate how the heteronormative framework impacted their perception of the couple. After reading the case study they are asked to reevaluate their initial reactions based on what they learned about the couple. This exercise helps to deconstruct the heteronormative thought patterns. It is concluded that the heteronormative frameworks are a barrier that has to be overcome within queer relationships and that is also a cognitive lens that has to be overridden by others. The sharing of these interviews and photographs aims to help create a conversation about the impact of heteronormativity in queer relationships.

Keywords

heteronormativity , queer relationships, gender roles

Research Area

LGBTQ+

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