Chapters authored
Perspective Chapter: Is Inclusion Safe? The Importance of Community Among Women Who Sleep with Women (WSW)
The important presence of community in creating success, well-being, and happiness is essential. Perhaps especially important for those marginalized others where a sense of “community” might be limited due to being different from what society sees as norm. This article explores the different ways women who sleep with women (WSW) evaluate their personal well-being in regards to community and relationships. Specifically, the impact inclusion has on community, practitioners, developers, and professionals who create spaces where others (LGTBQ+) belong. Participants included 37 self-identified WSW from the United States, with a majority being from Southern states. The purpose of the study was to examine perceptions and experiences among women of minority sexual groups. Contributing factors that may lead to more holistic lifestyles emerged. Discussing these questions revealed insight as to why WSW are more negatively affected in health and happiness than their heterosexual counterparts. Most importantly, these questions served as a platform for meaningful conversation, adding rich experiences, thoughts, and perceptions to research regarding the LGBT community.
Part of the book: Minorities