Understanding variations in LGBTIQ+ acceptance across space and time: The importance of norm perceptions and political dynamics
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Sweigart, Michael M.; Galván-Hernández, Danna; Hässler, Tabea; Hegarty, Peter; Kite, Mary E.; Ofosu, Eugene K.; Ünsal, Banu C.; Eisner, LéïlaEditorial
Wiley Online Library
Date
2024-09-14Referencia bibliográfica
Sweigart, M. et. al. Journal of Social Issues, 1–20. [https://doi.org/10.1111/josi.12638]
Abstract
The 21st century has seen dynamic social, legal, and
political change regarding the rights and acceptance of lesbian,
gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, and queer/questioning
(LGBTIQ+) people. This article argues that social norm
perceptions—perceptions of other people’s opinions in
a given social context—and the political dynamics that
shape those perceptions are important for understanding
differences in LGBTIQ+ acceptance across sociopolitical
environments and time periods. Instead of emphasizing
“actual” norms—people’s opinions on average in
different groups—we focus on norm perceptions since people
often conform to the attitudes and behaviors held and
endorsed by others to achieve social belonging and accuracy
in their judgments. We review evidence regarding
structural (e.g., laws and institutional decisions), group
(e.g., social identities), and individual (e.g., ideology) factors
that influence perceptions of, and conformity to,
norms of LGBTIQ+inclusion or exclusion.Drawing on this
review,we consider how political dynamics—theways that civic and political actors make salient, promote, and frame
issues, values, and norms in contesting or maintaining the
status quo—influence interpretations of, and responses to,
norm signals, thus shaping differences in LGBTIQ+ rights
norms across contexts and time periods. In conclusion, we
chart future areas for research, policy, and practice.