Format:
1 Online-Ressource
ISSN:
1469-1779
Content:
To understand the complex and varied pathways of identity among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) older cohorts, we must understand the socio-historical context in which they aged. Otis and Harley (2016) suggest sexual identities are socially constructed, fluid and continuously evolving through social interaction and meaning-making. Contributing to the complexity are various forms of discrimination ranging from overt macro-aggressions to subtle micro-aggressions, which over time lead to hierarchical social constructs that provide particular demographic groups more power than others (Goodman, 2001; Calasanti and Slevin, 2006). However, understanding the intersections of sexual identity with social constructs is difficult due to the underdeveloped body of research dedicated to exploring the diverse views, experiences and attitudes of LGBT older adults (Otis and Harley, 2016). While many researchers have discussed the dominant pathways to self-actualising sexual identity (Cass, 1979; D'Aguelli, 1994), others recognise the variation of experience and call for deeper examination of socio-historical factors impacting the timing and outcomes arising from one's decision to identify openly as a sexual minority person (Coleman, 1982; Kertzner, 2001; Herek and Garnets, 2007). Furthermore, Herek and Garnets (2007) recommend that ongoing research should be grounded in historical and cultural context to understand better the moderating effect social interactions have on mental health outcomes. Social interactions that framed the life trajectories of this population, internalised over time, inform their narrative identities as older adults and have revealed that we are at the beginning of adding the richness of a shimmering and reflective grey to the rainbow. In the next sections, we first consider the gaps in the literature and examine different trajectories of sexual identity formation shaped by social-historical contexts. We then explore these contexts as they relate to the personal identity. The review of literature concludes with existing research on narrative identity as it is understood to be the reflexive storytelling process individuals engage in to internalise their sense of purpose and to express themselves to others. Following the literature review, we explain how our critical perspective frames our narrative inquiry and adds dimension to our analysis. Our approach to understanding identity as fluid is especially valuable in expanding the current body of literature to include the changing roles and fluid experiences that inform one's embodiment of sexual identity in later life.
In:
Ageing and society, Cambridge [u.a.] : Cambridge Univ. Press, 1981, (2019) vom: 30. Okt., Seite 957-979, 1469-1779
In:
year:2019
In:
day:30
In:
month:10
In:
pages:957-979
Language:
English
URL:
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