Challenging the binary: a photo-narrative exploring sexual fluidity and the sexuality–sex–gender continuum in adult women in South Africa.

Abstract

This research explored sexual fluidity in attractions, associations and experiences relating to sexual orientation dimensions and sexual identity development in 5 sexually fluid, South African women between the ages 30–50 years. Prior to being interviewed, participants sourced and selected photographic representations of their experiences regarding their sexual identity development and sexual fluidity. The photographs were utilised during the narrative inquiry interviews to promote discussion and glean deeper understandings of participants’ unique experiences. The interviews sought to explore participants’ sexual fluidity in attractions, associations and experiences relating to their sexual orientation dimensions (sexual identity and attractions) and sexual identity development within the South African context. Grounded in dynamic systems and queer theory, this study used a narrative inquiry research design to generate the narratives of participants. Sexual fluidity in attractions were reported by all the participants, with four out of five experiencing feelings of attraction to both women and men during adolescence and early adulthood. Sexual fluidity in sexual identity, based on experiencing changes in attractions, were experienced by four of the five women. The narratives reveal how upbringing, religion, patriarchy and psychological stress, associated with being sexually fluid, may inform sexual identity development among South African women. In addition, the findings from the study highlight the complexities and commonalities pertaining to the impact of the socio-political environment; the influence of internalised value systems; limited opportunities for exposure to LGBTQ communities and; the potential dangers and risks associated with same-sex relationships in South Africa. The implications of this research concur with the findings of Diamond (2008b), Diamond (2013) and Katz-Wise (2012), that sexual orientation is not fixed and even individuals that consider themselves heteronormative may engage in same-gender sexual behaviour and relationships when prompted by situational or interpersonal factors (Diamond, 2021). Additionally, whilst South Africa has one of the most progressive constitutions when it comes to LGBTQ rights, homophobia and hatred of the ‘other’ is rife (Nel & Judge, 2008; Wells & Polders, 2006). Future studies are required to investigate channels to reduce homophobia and bring South African attitudes in line with policies. Of primary importance is the assessment of how environment impacts and shapes sexual identities and sexual orientation, and how these may lead to social stress and marginalisation.