Queer identities in the 21st century: Reclamation and stigma

• Published in: Current opinion in psychology 2023-02, Vol.49, p.101512, Article 101512
• Main Author: Worthen, Meredith G.F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: LGBTQ; Queer; Reclaim; Slur; Stigma; Victimization
• ISSN: 2352-250X; 2352-250X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101512

“Queer” has undeniably gained popularity as a reclaimed identity in the 21st century. Recent studies find that between 5% and 20% of non-heterosexuals identify as queer. Additionally, about 1 in 3 like to see the “Q” in “LGBTQ” and view “queer” as an empowering identity. Yet alongside this “queer” reclamation, queer people experience stigma including high rates of victimization with 3 in 4 queer women and men reporting sexuality-based discrimination, harassment, and/or violence. In addition, the negative stereotypes that queer women and men are “too hypersexual” and that they are not appropriately feminine/masculine remain fixtures in today's cultural climate. The “queer” slur is also reportedly used by 1 in 4. I conclude that currently, “queer” should be understood as both reclaimed and stigmatized. •“Queer” has gained popularity as a reclaimed identity in the 21st century.•Recent studies find that between 5 and 20% of non-heterosexuals identify as queer.•1 in 3 like to see the “Q” in “LGBTQ” and view “queer” as an empowering identity.•3 in 4 queer people are victimized and negative stereotyping is still pervasive.•“Queer” should be understood as both reclaimed and stigmatized.