Performativity Double Standards and the Sexual Orientation Climate at a Southern Liberal Arts University

• In Event: 308 - Regular Session. Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies

Abstract

This study employs quantitative and qualitative methods to examine how heterosexual, gay and lesbian, and bisexual students rate a Southern (religiously affiliated) university’s sexual orientation climate. Using queer theory and borrowing from Doan’s (2010) “tyranny of gendered spaces”, we explain why both gay and lesbian students and bisexual students have more negative perceptions of the university as a place to be for those who share their sexual orientations than heterosexual students. While heterosexual students see few problems with the campus climate, gay and lesbian students report exclusion in a number of settings, and bisexual students describe being challenged on the authenticity of their orientation. These distinct processes are all conditioned by broader heteronormative standards. We also shed much needed light on the relationship between performativity double standards at fraternity parties and campus climate perceptions.

Authors

• Reginald Anthony Byron, Southwestern University

• Maria R. Lowe, Southwestern University