The role of culture in shaping attitude towards non-heterosexuality in rural communities in the case of Pongola rural community.
Year: 2020
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Non-heterosexual people also known as the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender experience \ndifficulties in fitting into the heteronormative communities. As a result of their sexuality, they \nare faced with social exclusion, being judged and sometimes attacked. Cultural norms which \nare strongly against this phenomenon need to be put in place in order for there to be better \ninclusivity within society at large. The main aim of this study is to explore the role of culture \nin shaping societal attitude towards non-heterosexuality in case of Pongola rural community. \nThe researcher used qualitative approach when collecting data regarding the experiences of \nnon-heterosexual people in rural communities, the challenges they encounter, how they cope \nas well as how culture, media and religion has influenced people‟s perceptions on nonheterosexuality. \nThe right based approach helped the researcher to understand how human \nrights have been used to normalize inclusion of non-heterosexuals in the community, how the \nlaw plays a role in protecting the lives of those people and giving hope for the eradication of \nhomophobia. The queer theory helped the researcher to understand the coping mechanisms \nadopted by the LGBTs in a heteronormative environment. \nThe primary data was collected with the use of open-ended interviews which enabled each \nparticipant to voice out their views and beliefs in relation to non-heterosexuality. Openended \ninterviews were conducted with ten participants at Pongola rural community. Results \nof the study showed lack of knowledge about other sexual identities as well as cultural beliefs \nstanding as the main contributing factor to homophobia in the community. Results of the \nstudy also revealed the lack of resources aimed at assisting homosexuals in being regarded as \nactive members of the community. Such resources included the lack of gay support groups \nwhich contributed to the vulnerability of the LGBTs in Pongola. The role of media in \ntransforming the community is slightly in vain due to the slow development of this \ncommunity. \nThe study has recommended some policy adjustments aimed at inclusion of non-heterosexual \npeople in Pongola and to combat homophobia. Recommendations included educational \nprograms to empower community members about non-heterosexuality so they are informed \nabout it is and challenge assumptions.
Author: Noxolo Gcebile. Mamba
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3195674919