BIO

My name is Vinchenzo Vassalotti and I am from West Palm Beach, Florida. I am a Senior graduating at the end of this spring semester. In the fall, I will be pursuing a PhD in Applied Social Psychology at Loyola University in Chicago! I aspire to be a professor in the future and conduct research in the social psychology field alongside inspiring students to pursue their own questioning. My research interests reflect criminology, in-group and out-group relationships, and questioning related to marginalized communities. My passion is finding the intersection of research and public policy to implement local change!

Exploring LGBTQ+ Labels: Body Image and Self-Identity

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the usage of labels within the LGBTQ+ community and the relationship to body image, self-identity, and social stigma. Through the surveying of queer participants only, we gathered data toward a more tangible definition of the "Bear" label and canvassed opinion on in-group labeling. To solidify the definition, we created a task involving simulated male bodies organized by physique, weight, and body hair. Through this, we gathered information on variance in defining the "Bear" label via different LGBTQ identities, what these bodies may look like, and the personal effect of label usage.

As it is understood, there is confusion surrounding the usage of these labels as they can prompt rigidity in appearance and can often rely on harmful stereotypes. Through the study of the communities in which labels are highly utilized, we can gather intimate insight on labeling and personal identity. There is a fundamental lack of understanding of what characterizes these labels from an in-group perspective, and through community-reflective participation, we can gain much-needed information for marginalized identities.

Keywords: LGBTQ, SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, LANGUAGE, LABELS, PRIDE