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Abstract
An exploratory study on influence of social exclusion and effects of homophobia among male homosexuals in metropolitan Kolkata (Calcutta), India
D. Ganguli
Background: Heteronormativity and criminalization of sodomy render male homosexuals invisible and marginalized in India. This study explores the causes and consequences of social exclusion, marginalization, and sexual lives of male homosexuals in metropolitan Kolkata.
Methods: This is an exploratory study of my M. Phil thesis, based on participatory approach from emic perspective. Following a pilot survey, 50 self-identified homosexual men were interviewed from Kolkata’s one of the largest cruising spots through purposive sampling. Questions addressed social exclusion and discrimination, sexual behaviour, self-esteem and experiences of growing up as sexual minorities in our heteronormative society.
Results: The mainstream-alternative dichotomy to the arena of sexuality makes a marginal space for male homosexuals. Suppression of feelings, low self-esteem, social stigmatization and isolation may lead to substance abuse, violence against sexual object, or an outburst of uncontrollable sex practice. Harassment, sexual abuse, maladjustment with heteronormativity, emotional and social alienation becomes the everyday lived reality of many male homosexuals which push them to vulnerability. Lack of sensitization of people, male homosexuals living with HIV faced ‘two-tier discrimination’, one for their HIV and other for their sexuality. As a result, they develop a cultural texture within them to cope with heterosexual society and its norms. An increased desire to preserve their identity is the motivating force when they adopt new mode of living. Their isolation from the mainstream society and attachment to other community members increases their mobility and make them conscious politically.
Conclusions: Still the normative argument for accepting homosexuality is shown to be weak in our heterosexist society. Lack of consciousness among many sections of the societies violates the principle of equal citizenship. A strong social acceptance and socio-legal support can strengthen their social position. However, this study suggests about the importance of structural change concerning the sexuality issues.
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
CDD0330
Suggested Citation
" D. Ganguli
An exploratory study on influence of social exclusion and effects of homophobia among male homosexuals in metropolitan Kolkata (Calcutta), India.
:
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
CDD0330"
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