Focusing the Lens: Theoretical Perspectives of Body Normalization

Ashley L. Sullivan, Laurie L. Urraro

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

This chapter discusses the purpose, process, and implications of body normalization in the United States. It traces the intricate link between tenets of conservative Christianity and homophobia/transphobia. Foucault’s theories present a means to analyze modes of internalized bodily normalization. There is a critique of forced conformity prior to being validated as moral citizens. Research partners’ recollections of gender performativity, segregation, normalization, and gender role conformity congeal to instantiate the deep-seeded pain and strife that they experienced as young children in school.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCritical Cultural Studies of Childhood
PublisherPalgrave Macmillan
Pages181-198
Number of pages18
DOIs
StatePublished - 2019

Publication series

NameCritical Cultural Studies of Childhood
VolumePart F2105
ISSN (Print)2731-636X
ISSN (Electronic)2731-6378

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Education
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Cultural Studies
  • Life-span and Life-course Studies

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