Intersectionality - which elucidates how marginalized identities intersect and intertwine, shaping different forms of oppression or privilege - is a construct that, compared to other divisions, has yet to much influence sociopsychological research. Based on the relevant literature, and in an attempt to cover the existing research gap, the present study focuses on the representations of LGBT+ women in Greece regarding the effects of their intersecting identities in aspects of their special lives. For this purpose, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who self-identified as members of the LGBT+ community. A thematic analysis followed, through a socio-constructionist perspective with elements of Discursive Psychology, utilizing the arguments presented in the speech of the participants as well as rhetoric strategies and figures of speech. The main topics that were detected center around the representations of inequality, which are constructed as a consequence of the ignorance and conservatism of Greek society while being attributed mostly to the older generations. The visibility of the members of the LGBT+ community - as a result of their appearance - was deemed to be connected with worse treatment, and gendered differences were noted. LGBT+ men were represented as possible victims of aggressive and violent behaviors while women were most likely to be objectified and sexualized. The discrimination against LGBT+ women was considered visible in the work environment, the lack of opportunities, the underrepresentation, with additional challenges regarding women who carry multiple marginalized identities.

LGBT+ community, women, intersectionality, representations, social constructs

Applied Psychology Around the World | Volume 7, Issue 2