LGBTQ+ experiences in Conservative Christian communities

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Block_Kelsey_MA_2021.pdf (1.65 MB)

Date

2021-08-11

Authors

Block, Kelsey

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Abstract

Using in-depth interviews with six participants, this qualitative project examines LGBTQ+ experiences in Conservative Christian communities in British Columbia and Alberta through the lens of queer theory. The research questions guiding this project are: 1) How influential is the role of Christianity in the formation of non-normative genders and sexualities? 2) How do LGBTQ+ individuals understand their LGBTQ+ identity when situated within a traditionally heteronormative religious community? 3) Does there continue to be a code of silence surrounding LGBTQ+ identities within Conservative Christian communities? 4) How do LGBTQ+ individuals deal with the perceived incompatibility between their faith and their sexuality and/or gender? Findings indicate that participants view the silence surrounding LGBTQ+ issues and the subsequent lack of formal support for LGBTQ+ individuals as complicit in perpetuating rhetoric that LGBTQ+ identities are abnormal, sinful, and shameful. The majority of participants did not experience extended internalized conflict between their sexual/gender and religious identities, though they did struggle with trying to integrate their LGBTQ+ identities into their Conservative Christian communities. All participants shifted to a more personalized faith and view Christianity as a resource instead of a requirement, and the majority of participants frame both their gender/sexual identity and religious identity as fluid and liminal, subject to change depending on the context. Recommendations for Conservative Christian communities to better address sexual and gender diversity include exposure, celebration of LGBTQ+ identities, adherence to unconditional love as a core tenet of Christianity, and transparency regarding community stances on LGBTQ+ individuals and issues.

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Keywords

LGBTQ+, Religion, Queer Theory, Gender, Sexuality, Christianity, Qualitative

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URI

http://hdl.handle.net/1828/13253

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ETD (Electronic Theses and Dissertations)
Theses (Sociology)
 
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