ERIC Number: EJ780549
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007
Pages: 18
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0897-5264
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Using Queer Theory to Explore Lesbian College Students' Multiple Dimensions of Identity
Abes, Elisa S.; Kasch, David
Journal of College Student Development, v48 n6 p619-636 Nov-Dec 2007
By introducing queer theory to Abes and Jones's (2004) constructivist narrative inquiry of lesbian college students' perceptions of their multiple identities, we retell the developmental narrative of one participant's negotiation of her sexuality, religion, gender, and social class. This queer retelling of a developmental story shows how identities are constantly forming and reforming and challenges heteronormative assumptions underlying student development theory, including the construct of self-authorship. We propose a fluid perspective on student development that accounts for lesbian college students' resistance of heteronormative structures. We also encourage student affairs practice that centers lesbian college students' agency and resistance.
Descriptors: Constructivism (Learning), College Students, Social Class, Student Attitudes, Homosexuality, Student Development, Theories, Self Concept, Religion, Sex, Student Personnel Services
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Publication Type: Information Analyses; Journal Articles
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A