Humanizing lesbian characters on television: Exploring their characterization and interpersonal relationships

Abstract

The present study examined representations of 39 lesbian characters’ interpersonal relationships and characterological profiles in 20 “lesbian-centric” television shows from 2008 to 2018. Using a mixed-methods approach, the following variables were analyzed: the quality of lesbian characters’ relationships with their parents, children, close friends, and romantic partners; their sense of acceptance from these relationships; their gender presentation and expression; the use of homonegative tropes in targeted programs; portrayals of sexual behaviors; and demographic characteristics. Results indicated that the majority of the lesbian characters were young, cisgender, white, middle-class, and portrayed within various homonegative tropes. Most of the lesbian characters shared positive relationships with their mothers, children, close friends, and romantic partners, but not with their fathers. Qualitative findings evidenced support for the quantitative analyses; however, they revealed that lesbian characters’ friendships were not fully developed. The strengths and limitations of this study, and directions for future research are outlined.

Keywords:

• Lesbians
• television
• interpersonal relationships
• media
• outness
• homonegativity

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kandice M. Parker

Kandice Parker is a PhD candidate in the Psychology of Culture, Health, and Human Development at the University of Saskatchewan; her research interests include: masculinity, identity development, male allyship, feminist theory, queer theory, positionality, privilege, and LGBTQ macro/micro-aggressions.

Bidushy Sadika

Bidushy Sadika is a M.A. candidate in the Psychology’s Culture, Health, and Human Development program at the University of Saskatchewan, and her research interests include: intersectionality theory, feminist theory, white power and privilege, the lived experiences of LGBTQ and racial, ethnic, and cultural minority persons, and gender roles and stereotypes.

Durr-e Sameen

Durr-e Sameen graduated with a B.A. (Honours) degree in Psychology and a certificate in Criminology and Addictions. Her research interests include prejudice and discrimination toward social minority groups with an emphasis on the perspectives and experiences of LGBTQ persons.

Todd G. Morrison

Todd G. Morrison, a Professor of Social Psychology at the University of Saskatchewan, is coeditor of Psychology & Sexuality and conducts research on topics relevant to psychometrics and LGB psychology.

Melanie A. Morrison

Melanie A. Morrison, a Professor of Social Psychology at the University of Saskatchewan and co-Director of the Saskatchewan Equity, Equality and Diversity (SEED) laboratory, conducts research pertinent to stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination; LGB psychology; and feminism.