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Mid- and Later Life Cross-Sex Friendships in Minority Ethnic Contexts: Insights From Scotland

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  • Shruti Chaudhry

Abstract

This article draws on qualitative research among older adults (50+ years) of South Asian heritage in Scotland to explore what cross-sex friendships reveal about the normative tenor of gender, sexualities, and intimate relationships in minority ethnic contexts. I argue that South Asian cultural norms work against the ‘patterning’ and maintenance of cross-sex friendships. When they do occur, they have to be managed with regard to familial ties and community expectations. The risks are greater for women who must deal with policing of their sexuality even as they age. Such friendships signal social change and agency within the diasporic communities. Yet they require negotiation of gendered and ethnic/cultural scripts and point to the continuing significance of kin and community.

Suggested Citation

  • Shruti Chaudhry, 2022. "Mid- and Later Life Cross-Sex Friendships in Minority Ethnic Contexts: Insights From Scotland," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 27(4), pages 947-963, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socres:v:27:y:2022:i:4:p:947-963
    DOI: 10.1177/13607804221123334
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lynn Jamieson & David Morgan & Graham Crow & Graham Allan, 2006. "Friends, Neighbours and Distant Partners: Extending or Decentring Family Relationships?," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 11(3), pages 39-47, September.
    2. Lynn Jamieson, 2011. "Intimacy as a Concept: Explaining Social Change in the Context of Globalisation or Another Form of Ethnocentricism?," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 16(4), pages 151-163, December.
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