(Un)doing Heteronormativity From Within: Male-Female Couples Negotiating Norms on Sexual Desire

• In Event: 1480 - Section on Sociology of Sexualities Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 03. Sexuality, Family, and Marriage

Abstract

Sexual desire within heterosexual relationships is a much debated topic. This article examines how Dutch white male-female couples communicate and negotiate desire for sex , and how heteronormative norms are (re)produced in this process. It takes the interaction between partners as entry point to study how heteronormativity is both challenged and produced in multiple ways through heterosexual sex interactions. It thereby focusses on the production and negotiation of three social norms about sexual desire, which 1) construct sex as part of a romantic relationship, 2) render consensual sex necessary, and 3) indicate a preference for alternation between partners in initiating sex. How these norms are interpreted, made sense of and intersect with gendered understandings is explored through joint-couple and individual interviews. Based on these findings, this article argues that heteronormativity is not monolithic and rigid, but is made up of varying and at times contradicting norms.

Author

• Myra Bosman, University of Amsterdam