Queer theories helps us to see how society’s expectations of sexual orientation, sex and gender have an impact on our perception of these characteristics. It’s an umbrellaterm for many different, sometimes overlapping voices.
The term ‘queer theory’ coined by Teresa de Laurets 1990, challenged conventional boundaries of lesbian and gay studies. Rooted in various academic and everyday situations, queer theory is driven by the desire to promote understanding among people about privileges and disadvantages.
Queer theories embraces intersectionality, considering dimensions like sexuality, gender, race and ethnicity, embodiment, abilities, emotions and other aspects for a nuanced understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences. Beyond critiques, it dynamically evolves through ongoing debates and finds global application, adapting to diverse cultural and socio-political contexts.
In short, queer theory not only addresses the complexities of identity, language and power dynamics but also evolves to address emerging issues, maintains an intersectional perspective, participates in critical debates, and has a global relevance that extends beyond its Western origins.
(Author: Inga Schmidt)
See more resources
David Semp (2011) Questioning heteronormativity: using queer theory to inform research and practice within public mental health services, Psychology & Sexuality, 2:1, 69-86, DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2011.536317
Queer Theory Now. From Foundations to Futures. McCann, H. & Monaghan, W. (2019). Bloomsbury Publishing. ISBN 9781352007510