‘Living sexualities’: non-hetero female sexuality in urban middle-class Bangladesh

Karim, Shuchi

doi:10.5040/9781350222571.ch-010

Cited by 12 publications

(5 citation statements)

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“…Multiple sexual expressions are 'sanctioned or tolerated or ignored, as long as such activities remain hidden from the public gaze' and do not disrupt the ideal of procreative heterosexual marriage [26]. Heteronormativity -framed under strict gender binaries, compulsory heterosexuality and marriage normativity -has become inscribed into postcolonial nations' legal frameworks and gradually established as universal; ultimately negating the South Asian's own history of sexual diversity [27][28][29].…”

Section: Heteronormativity In Bangladeshmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Lived experiences of sexual and gender diverse young people have been largely ignored in mainstream health research and policy, particularly in countries where the rights of sexual and gender diversity are not recognised [ 1 , 2 , 8 , 11 ]. There is a scarcity of research on the sexual practices, lived experiences, and health concerns of LGBTQ + youth in South Asia where heteronormative patriarchy continues to be a dominant paradigm [ 11 , 14 – 18 ]. For example, Bowling and colleagues [ 8 ] argue that the criminalisation of same-sex sexuality in India had ‘laid the foundation for ostracisation, sanctioned stigma and furthered injustices for many’ by forcing individuals to hide their sexuality.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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‘Bending’ against straightening devices: queer lived experiences of sexuality and sexual health in Bangladesh

Alam

Marston

2023

BMC Public Health

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Background Despite global data around increased health risks among sexual and gender diverse populations, lived experiences of young lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and others (LGBTQ+) people are often ignored in mainstream health research. This is particularly evident in countries such as Bangladesh where the rights of sexual minorities are not recognised. This article looks at queer lived experiences of sexuality and sexual health within such a context. We use the phenomenological framework of heteronormative ‘straightening devices’ – mechanisms working to direct people towards heterosexuality, gender conformity, and procreative marriage – to identify ‘invisible’ structures upholding normative sexual behaviours and see how young people in Bangladesh navigate these in their everyday lives. Methods This article is based on qualitative data collected in Dhaka, Bangladesh over nine months in 2019 as part of the first author’s doctoral research. Using thematic analysis, we draw on experiences of normative sexual expectations from biographical in-depth interviews with 14 purposively sampled LGBTQ + individuals aged 18 to 24. Results Respondents identified heteronormative expectations around gender norms of traditional behaviour and presentation for men and women as well as parental expectations of compulsory heterosexuality through marriage. These straightening devices existed at multiple levels, including individual, interpersonal, community, and societal. The four main themes around straightening devices include marriage norms for women; harassment of feminine-presenting bodies in public spaces; heteronormative healthcare; and consequences of not embodying heteronormativity. Conclusion Our study highlighted young people’s everyday experiences of having to ‘bend’ to – and against – heteronormative straightening devices at home, in public spaces, and within institutions such as healthcare in Bangladesh. The exploration of queer experiences provides new insights into context-specific ways in which sexual and gender diverse people understand themselves. Further research using the framework of straightening devices can help public health professionals to identify more ‘barriers’ confronted by sexual and gender diverse young people.

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Section: Heteronormativity In Bangladeshmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

‘Bending’ against straightening devices: queer lived experiences of sexuality and sexual health in Bangladesh

Alam

Marston

2023

BMC Public Health

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“…Consistent academic accomplishments, sexual abstinence, and obedience towards one’s parents were identified by the participants as the three most important criteria for being considered a “good son” at home. The centrality of education in maintaining a respectable middle-class status for young men and women in Bangladesh has been discussed elsewhere (e.g., Blanchet 1996; Karim 2012). According to participants, their educational expenses constituted almost one-third of their parents’ income, ranging from 10,000 BDT to 40,000 BDT (100–400 Euros) per month.…”

Section: A “Good Son” At Homementioning

confidence: 99%

“…This paper contributes to the emerging literature focussed on the subjective experiences of masculinity among sexual minorities (e.g., Hossain 2022, Karim 2012), men in slums (e.g., Biswas, Karim, and Rashid 2020), and transnational migrants (e.g., Pande 2017) in Bangladesh. We add to this knowledge by elucidating the views of middle-class, heterosexual, adolescent boys (i.e., members of the sexual majority).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Juggling Masculinities: Being a Middle-Class Young Man in Dhaka

Camellia¹,

Roodsaz

2023

Men and Masculinities

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To date, South Asian masculinity studies have largely investigated the construction of masculinities at the structural level, while subjective experiences have received little attention. This paper analyses data gathered from ethnographic research conducted among 40 adolescent boys living in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and asks: how do middle-class adolescent boys in Dhaka construct different ideals of masculinity and negotiate those in their everyday life at home and among peers? Which ideas about sexuality are involved? This analysis provides in-depth insights into the ways in which different models of masculinity are (re)constructed and embraced or resisted at the subjective level by adolescents in their everyday negotiations of sexuality. We will argue that this younger generation of men encounter unique gendered vulnerabilities in the contexts of fast urbanisation, an increasingly uncertain labour market and a lack of support in negotiating their emotional and social wellbeing.

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“…By shedding light on the intricate dynamics of dating infidelity, this study seeks to contribute valuable insights that can inform relationship counseling, mental health support, and the development of strategies to foster healthy, resilient, and fulfilling dating relationships. Through an indepth analysis of these dynamics, this research aspires to contribute to the broader understanding of contemporary romantic relationships in an ever-evolving social and technological landscape (Karim, 2012).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Understanding Dynamics Dating Infidelity: Behaviors, Motivations, and Implications for Relationship Well-being

Hartnett,

Croes,

Hertlein

et al. 2023

Sosateris

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This research delves into the intricate dynamics of dating infidelity within the context of modern romantic relationships. By examining behaviors, motivations, consequences, challenges, and treatment interventions related to dating infidelity, this study offers a comprehensive exploration of this complex phenomenon. The findings reveal a spectrum of behaviors, ranging from emotional connections facilitated by technology to seeking sexual novelty and exploring relationships outside of primary partnerships. Motivational factors, including emotional fulfillment, sexual exploration, and dissatisfaction within the current relationship, emerge as key drivers of dating infidelity. The implications of infidelity extend beyond individuals, impacting relationship well-being and household welfare. Challenges such as communication breakdowns and unrealistic expectations hinder effective relationship dynamics. Treatment interventions, such as couples therapy, communication training, and strategies for rebuilding trust, provide a roadmap for addressing infidelity and promoting healing. This research enriches relationship science by offering insights into the evolving landscape of modern romantic connections and underscores the importance of open dialogue and communication to foster healthier and more resilient relationships.

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‘Living sexualities’: non-hetero female sexuality in urban middle-class Bangladesh

Cited by 12 publications

References 0 publications

‘Bending’ against straightening devices: queer lived experiences of sexuality and sexual health in Bangladesh

‘Bending’ against straightening devices: queer lived experiences of sexuality and sexual health in Bangladesh

Juggling Masculinities: Being a Middle-Class Young Man in Dhaka

Understanding Dynamics Dating Infidelity: Behaviors, Motivations, and Implications for Relationship Well-being

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