The perpetuation of gender normativity through contemporary Chinese schooling

This paper explores the retrospective experiences of lesbians and gay men in China regarding their encounters with gender normativity in primary and secondary schools. Thirteen self-identified gay and lesbian young adults (aged 20–30) were interviewed, providing a Chinese perspective that challenges Western-centric viewpoints on experiencing adolescence as a sexuality diverse individual. For many, gender-related homophobic harassment was rife in their schools, manifesting as peers’ teasing, name calling and public criticism by teachers. In response to ongoing harassment, some participants tried to modify their gender expression and hide their sexuality. The findings highlight the intertwining of nationalist discourses, heterosexism and binary gender stereotypes, which characterise school climates in China, inclusive of tolerance of gender-related homophobic language and behaviours; teachers’ expectations of gender normativity; and an absence of gender and sexuality diversity supportive school policies. These marginalising experiences at school also led to self-acceptance issues and internalised homophobia for some participants.