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Community definition and benefits: Perspectives from African American lesbians

Posted on:2011-12-21Degree:M.AType:Thesis
University:California State University, Long BeachCandidate:Basilio, CamilleFull Text:PDF
GTID:2445390002965591Subject:African American Studies
Abstract/Summary:
The study examined how African American lesbians define their own community and how community membership may benefit this population. Archival focus group data from 26 self-identified African American lesbians from Chicago were qualitatively analyzed. Given their multiple minority group identity status it was expected that strong community support would provide African American lesbians the general benefits of community membership, as well as serve as a buffer against oppression and minority stress. Results showed that participants sought communities that offered emotional and informational support, as well as a safe place from the oppression experienced within the dominant society. Results also revealed that some participants felt that there was little sense of an organized African American lesbian community. The barriers to community membership, such as stigmatization, are also discussed.
Keywords/Search Tags:African american, Community, Studies
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