I’m Normal Just Like Everybody Else Here: Constructing and Reinforcing Heteronormativity at Sex Toy Parties

• In Event: 392 - Section on Sociology of Culture Paper Session. Normalcy

Abstract

From a cognitive sociological perspective, classification and framing are essential parts of the human experience because they allow us to differentiate, separate, and make meaning out of our complex social world. Classification and framing also allow us to define and interpret situations, behaviors, and people as “normal” or “abnormal.” Heteronormativity is a frame that is frequently applied, wherein heterosexuality is regarded as “normal” and all other sexual orientations and identities are regarded as “abnormal” or “unusual.” Like most frames, its use is often subconscious, and it can be difficult to understand how heteronormative frames are created and used. In this paper, I discuss how sex toy parties (an in-home sales program that sells sexual products) present a unique perspective from which to view the creation and maintenance of a heteronormative framework. By reinforcing the boundaries between men and women, relying upon gendered sexual ideologies, and rendering women with same-sex attraction invisible, sex toy parties and consultants often unwittingly reinforce heteronormativity, heterosexism, and restrictive gender and sexual ideologies.

Author

• Amanda May Jungels, United States Army