Description
A woman becoming aware of her lesbian sexual identities is not an instantaneous event. There are a number of factors that affect the development of lesbian sexual identities. One factor focused on in this study is that of the Internet, and more specifically online dating websites. Using a poststructuralist perspective in correlation with Queer Theory, this research project examines the various communicative strategies used by lesbians who have sought a romantic partner online. Together, these strategies explore the processes lesbians experience when developing both their online and offline sexual identities. Through data gathered from interviews with lesbian online daters and reflections of my own online dating experiences, this research uncovers three key processes of the development of lesbian identities: (a) conceiving, (b) validating, (c) authenticating. This research supports the concept that identities are socially constructed and constantly develop and evolve. Ultimately, this research calls for the understanding of how the Internet affects the lesbian sexual identities development process, while exploring ways in which lesbian online daters communicate, manage, and develop their lesbian identities.
