The influence of instructor's sexual orientation on identity formation in the college classroom

• In Event: The Influence of Instructor Communicative Traits and Behaviors in the College Classroom

Abstract

Instructor's negotiate multiple identities in the classroom. The goal of this project is to give view to lesbian and gay instructors who are marginalized in the dominant culture but empowered in the classroom. Using a framework of co-cultural theory, we examine personal interviews of gay and lesbian instructors decision to disclose or not disclose their sexual orientation in the classroom. Results are discussed in terms of performance of sexual orientation and the paradox of diversity.

Authors

• Karen Anderson, University of North Texas

• Heather Giovanini, University of North Texas