Queer socialization: A case study of lesbian, gay, and queer (LGQ) parent families

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper uses case study data from 4 lesbian, gay, and queer (LGQ) parent families with children between the ages of 14–18 years old to describe queer socialization, or the process of by which children learn about queer culture. The author draws on the racial socialization literature, and extends the limited research on socialization in lesbian and gay (LG) parent families, by describing the content, form, and rationale for queer socialization. Results indicate that queer socialization takes the form of direct, indirect, and time management strategies aimed at teaching children about queer culture, discrimination toward LGBTQ people, wariness in relationships with heterosexual or socially conservative individuals, or heteronormativity. Queer socialization occurred in these families because of concerns for children’s wellbeing, and environmental, parental, and child characteristics. Understanding the what, how, and why of queer socialization is the first step to fully understanding the process and utilizing it to improve the lives of LGBTQ parent families.