Abstract
In recent years, the lesbian and gay "scene" of bars, nightclubs, and dance parties has been undergoing a structural decline in many Western cities. This article aimed to examine the relevance of the scene to same-sex attracted young adults amid these changes. An online survey was conducted with 572 same-sex attracted young women and men in Sydney. Only a minority of respondents participated in the scene at least weekly (16%), and the majority did not regard the scene as important to their leisure time (60%). However, respondents valued the scene as a space to connect with other same-sex attracted people and display same-sex affection without fear of hostility. Lesbian and gay identified respondents tended to be more socially engaged with the scene compared to other same-sex attracted respondents. The findings suggest that while the scene continues to be valued by many same-sex attracted young people, improved social attitudes have made participating in the scene less of an imperative.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1264-85 |
Number of pages | 22 |
Journal | Journal of Homosexuality |
Volume | 62 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Australia
- Cross-Sectional Studies
- Female
- Homosexuality, Female
- Homosexuality, Male
- Humans
- Male
- Social Behavior
- Surveys and Questionnaires
- Young Adult
- Journal Article