Skip to main navigation Skip to search Skip to main content

Understanding Generation Gaps in LGBTQ+ Communities: Perspectives About Gay Neighborhoods Among Heteronormative and Homonormative Generational Cohorts

  • Alfred State College

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

30 Scopus citations

Abstract

Using Strauss-Howe generational theory as a guiding structure, this chapter examines differences between generational identity for LGBTQ+ individuals compared to heteronormative generational identity. We theorize that LGBTQ+ individuals may identify with two generational cohorts—one defined by birth year and a second related to “coming of age” as a sexual minority. A case study examining the lifespan of four LGBTQ+ celebrity personalities demonstrates the concept of generational layering. We argue “generational layering” affects various aspects of LGBTQ+ life, including connection to place as reflected in attitudes of LGBTQ+ people regarding gay neighborhoods. The chapter concludes with five takeaway messages that clarify the relationship between LGTBQ+ people, the generational cohorts to which they belong and with which they identify, and the attitudes of various LGBTQ+ generational cohorts toward gay neighborhoods.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationUrban Book Series
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH
Pages307-338
Number of pages32
DOIs
StatePublished - 2021

Publication series

NameUrban Book Series
ISSN (Print)2365-757X
ISSN (Electronic)2365-7588

Keywords

  • Baby boomers
  • Gay neighborhoods
  • Gay studies
  • Gayborhoods
  • Generation X
  • Generation Z
  • Generational theory
  • Generations
  • Greatest Generation
  • LGBTQ+
  • Millennials

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Understanding Generation Gaps in LGBTQ+ Communities: Perspectives About Gay Neighborhoods Among Heteronormative and Homonormative Generational Cohorts'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this