Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

1152

Date

2014

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Counseling Psychology

Committee Chair

Sara Bridges

Committee Member

Douglas Strohmer

Committee Member

Elin Ovrebo

Committee Member

Ronnie Priest

Abstract

Although recently literature related to the emergence and development of individuals who identify as straight-allies, or heterosexual individuals who advocate for the GLBT community in some way has been completed, little is known about straight-allies who also affirm a conservative Christian identity. Using narrative inquiry and queer theory, this study sought to better understand the experiences and stories of individuals who affirm to these two seemingly dichotomous identities in order to broaden the scope of research on this population. Unstructured narrative inquiries were utilized along with both constant comparison and contextualization for the analysis of this work. Findings indicated that individuals who identified as both a straight-ally and conservative Christian used several different methods to live out these roles concurrently in their lives. This includes both utilization of both critical thinking and individualized interpretations of biblical texts in order to negotiate these identities. In addition, the impact of personal relationships with GLBT individuals, and patriotism also helped participants negotiate their seemingly dichotomous identities. Findings were displayed using monologues and creative analytic practice in order to bring participants' stories to life.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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