Exploring implicit and explicit judgements in gender expression and sexual orientation

Abstract

The current study aimed to investigate stereotypes pertaining to individuals’ views of sexual orientation and gender expression. This study investigated these stereotypes through the binary viewpoint of an Implicit Association task in conjunction with open-ended questions, which allow space for more fluid responses in accordance with Queer Theory. One-hundred and forty individuals participated in a modified IAT study with pictures of couples varying in sexuality (i.e. gay or straight) and gender expression (i.e. feminine or masculine). They also judged sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression in open-ended questions. Gender expression was found to play a critical role in individuals' perceptions of sexual orientation and their categorization tendencies, regardless of whether the individual was depicted in a homosexual or heterosexual couple. For example, it was found that those with gender non- conforming appearances (i.e. men wearing feminine clothing) tended to be categorized as homosexual. They were also processed slower in the IAT. In addition, within homosexual couples, variations based on gender expressions were also observed (e.g. two feminine women being processed faster, while two masculine men, slower). Overall, results show a clear confusion in understanding gender expression, with a large variation of words used to describe gender based on expression, particularly for individuals with a non-stereotypical presentation. The results suggest that gender expression, which has rarely been included in studies, should be taken into account in research.