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Fitting the bill? (Dis)embodied disclosure of sexual identities in the workplace

Author

Listed:
  • Anna Einarsdóttir

    (University of Hull, UK; University of York, UK)

  • Helge Hoel

    (University of Manchester, UK)

  • Duncan Lewis

    (University of Plymouth, UK)

Abstract

The disclosure of lesbian, gay or bisexual identity is generally presented as a conscious act of leaving heterosexuality. Such interpretation fails to take into account the dynamic processes involved in constructing non-heterosexual identities and to what degree such identities are embodied or disembodied. Supported by interview data among lesbian and gay employees in six British workplaces, this article explores how non-heterosexual identities become known in organizational settings by arguing that lesbians and gay men continue to collide with social expectations and stereotypical ideas of how sexual identities should be ‘worn’ and performed. These expectations and ideas both shape colleagues’ assumptions about their non-heterosexual identities and can expose lesbians and gay men to negative behaviour at work in highly gendered ways.

Suggested Citation

  • Anna Einarsdóttir & Helge Hoel & Duncan Lewis, 2016. "Fitting the bill? (Dis)embodied disclosure of sexual identities in the workplace," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 30(3), pages 489-505, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:30:y:2016:i:3:p:489-505
    DOI: 10.1177/0950017014568136
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Edinaldo Tebaldi & Bruce Elmslie, 2006. "Sexual orientation and labour supply," Applied Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 38(5), pages 549-562.
    2. Andrew K. T. Yip, 2008. "Researching Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Christians and Muslims: Some Thematic Reflections," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 13(1), pages 116-129, January.
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