Gender, Sexual Orientation and Life Course Perspectives on LGBTQ Status

Abstract Perspectives on gender, gender expression, sexuality identity, and sexual orientation differ within and between generations given the great extent to which these concepts are embedded within social, cultural, and historical context. Across contexts, questions of authenticity are critical. T...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Gender and Generations Vol. 30; pp. 115 - 132
Main Authors:	Franzese, Alexis T., Kaufmann, Josh M., Rurka, Marissa M.
Format:	Book Chapter
Language:	English
Published:	United Kingdom Emerald Publishing Limited 2021
Subjects:	Gender Studies and Gender Violence Sociology orientation Gender sexuality identity authenticity life course
Online Access:	Get full text
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Summary:	Abstract Perspectives on gender, gender expression, sexuality identity, and sexual orientation differ within and between generations given the great extent to which these concepts are embedded within social, cultural, and historical context. Across contexts, questions of authenticity are critical. This research compares generational perspectives about authenticity, gender and gender-related constructs, and sexuality. Through semi-structured interviews with a nonprobability, purposive sample of heterosexual and LGBTQ younger (aged 18–22) and older (aged 65+) adults, how a sense of authenticity is experienced and the degree to which individuals experience authenticity around sexual and gender identities are compared. Data were analyzed using the constant comparison method of analysis, and results indicate that while younger adult respondents held expansive terminology and knowledge related to sexual and gender identities, older adult participants lacked such fluidity, and that lack was an inhibiting factor in older adults being able to name and embody their authentic sexual selves. In conclusion, both position in one’s life course (age) and one’s generational cohort (historical, cultural, and social context) influence how individuals experience authenticity around gender and sexual identities.
ISBN:	9781800710337 180071033X
ISSN:	1529-2126
DOI:	10.1108/S1529-212620210000030006