SOCI 2P20 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Sexual Identity, Linear Progression, Pansexuality
Document Summary
Have historical sexual identity labels gay , lesbian and bisexual become irrelevant for contemporary adolescents. California study 2003-05 = 2,560 secondary students surveyed. Results: historically typical sexual identity labels by (71%) of non-heterosexual youth; little empirical evidence that contemporary teenagers are post-gay . Newer descriptors: questioning (13%, queer (5%, alternative ambivalence or resistance to sexual identity labels, or fluidity in sexual identities (9%) Unique challenges for youth who identify as lgbt. Adolescence = period of exploration and self-discovery. Develop awareness and understanding of the self. Physically and emotionally seclude a core part of themselves from their peers and families. Sensitive period begin to explore sexuality and engage in close peer and romantic relationships. Classic developmental or stage models over last 30 years to explain sexual identity. Linear progression from sensitization or awareness of sexual attraction. Sexual identity confusion and/or engagement in sexual behaviour. Useful in proposing developmental understandings of sexual identity.