Multiple Identities and Their Intersections with Queer Health and Wellbeing

Abstract

ABSTRACTQuestions about the nature of culture and its influence on health and wellbeing are emerging as important for health care practice, education and research. However, definitions of culture vary, and a broad definition of culture that embraces diversity, including sexual orientation, (dis)ability, sex, gender, gender identity, age and ethnicity, is contested. This paper makes the case for the need to embrace a multi-layered definition of culture. It argues that multiple cultural identities held by so many queer Australians can enrich or harm wellbeing, depending on the social milieu in which the person lives. The intersectionality of various cultural identities must be understood by healthcare providers, educators, policymakers and researchers in the field. This paper provides a framework to guide this understanding and examples of methods to support healthy multiple identities. Social connectedness, coalition building and social citizenship are presented as strategies for successful integration of multiple identities.