Regulating sexual and gender minority youth: Heteronormativity through Hong Kong schooling

Abstract

Limited research exists on school social work that addresses the issues, needs and concerns facing Hong Kong’s sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth. This qualitative study interrogates how heteronormativity produces gender and sexuality oppression within the secondary school system. It situates Hong Kong schooling in a heteronormative context shaped by the intersecting influences of Chinese cultures, intimate family life, Christianity and media/public attitudes. It also highlights how heteronormativity is enforced and reproduces gender and sexuality oppression in multiple ways (through peer relations, curriculum and class teacher relations and school social work practices). Understanding how heteronormativity manifests and works is urgently needed to challenge heteronormativity through Hong Kong schooling.