Psychology

Content of, sources of, and responses to sexual stereotypes of Black and Latinx women and men in the United States: A qualitative intersectional exploration

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Interdisciplinary intersectionality scholars have highlighted that stereotypes are a central basis for intersectional oppression, and psychologists are increasingly incorporating intersectional theory into stereotypes research. In striving to embrace intersectionality's radical core by applying several of its guiding premises, we explored the perspectives of young Black and Latinx individuals in New York City on sexual stereotypes of Black and Latinx women and men. We conducted 11 focus groups with 75 participants. Using a combined deductive and inductive approach to thematic analysis, we found that many subthemes reflected participants identifying content of, sources of, and responses to sexual stereotypes that were consistent with and supported by an intersectional analysis and approach. These subthemes highlighted sexual stereotypes’ roots in long-standing interlocking systems of power and oppression and societal institutions, that stereotypes/oppression can also become internalized within individuals and communities, as well as the power and strength of participants and their communities in coping with and resisting sexual stereotypes and oppression. Findings suggest specific ways psychologists can incorporate intersectional inquiry and praxis to address sexual stereotypes as a critical social issue, in collaboration with oppressed communities and social movements struggling for justice and liberation.

Publication Title

Journal of Social Issues

Publication Date

2020

Volume

76

Issue

4

First Page

921

Last Page

948

ISSN

0022-4537

DOI

10.1111/josi.12411

Keywords

sexual stereotypes, Black and Latinx women and men, intersectional exploration

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