Heteronormativity and sexuality politics in Singapore: The female-headed households of divorced and lesbian mothers

This article explores the family practices of female-headed households in Singapore, specifically, those of lesbian and divorced mothers as they negotiate the entrenched normative orders of sexuality and gender in Singapore. In examining the non-normative lives of lesbian and divorced mothers, this...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of sociology (Melbourne, Vic.) Vic.), 2018-12, Vol.54 (4), p.647-664
Main Authors: Tang, Shawna, Quah, Sharon Ee Ling
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Divorced mothers
Families
Families & family life
Female headed households
Females
Gays & lesbians
Heteronormativity
Households
Lesbianism
Mothers
Political aspects
Politics
Public policy
Sex
Sexuality
Social environment
Social life and customs
Sociology
Sociology of the family
Women
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Summary:This article explores the family practices of female-headed households in Singapore, specifically, those of lesbian and divorced mothers as they negotiate the entrenched normative orders of sexuality and gender in Singapore. In examining the non-normative lives of lesbian and divorced mothers, this article marshals two distinct fields of study to explore the profound effects of heteronormativity on all who stand outside its fold. Using empirical data collected from in-depth interviews with Singaporean lesbian and divorced mothers, this article provides insights into how the women lead, organise and practise family; identifies the challenges they face in an unfavourable policy and social environment in which heteronormativity is assumed at every turn; and asks after the hopes and aspirations of these women for their non-normative households. Based on these accounts, the paper outlines a broader vision for government policy positions on the family and for sexuality politics relevant for contexts deeply invested in a heteronormative ideal.
ISSN:1440-7833
1741-2978
DOI:10.1177/1440783317742530