The term identity has multiple meanings and connotations that create various definitions based on the way the term is being used. Identity has shifted from being a form of social construct to self –representation and creation. The way people choose to define them selves, is how they create an identity. A person’s beliefs, values, and interests are essential factors in determining their identity. Since identities are shaped by the interests people have and the way people choose to characterize themselves, a person’s identity is unique. Sexual identity or preference is defined by sexual attraction to a person either of the same or opposite sex. Lesbian identity is based on the preference and attraction of a woman. Therefore, a woman who is either sexually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually attracted or interested in another woman usually identifies as a lesbian.
Lesbian identity is composed of sub-identities. Sub-identities are the underlying forms of classification that make up lesbian identity as a whole. One of the ways lesbians classify themselves is by using labels to define their identity. In particular, the terms Femme, Stemme, and Stud/ Butch, are all titles that are claimed and distributed in the lesbian community. Though each of these labels represents lesbianism, they also create group distinctions according to identification.
The process of establishing which sub-identity a lesbian decides is contingent on several factors. The first has to do with self- representation. Most of the time, the way a lesbian dresses is an indicator of what sub-group she identifies with. Generally, lesbian women who choose to wear men’s clothing are considered Studs/ Butch. This does not mean all women who wear men’s clothing are lesbians. However, if a lesbian identifies as a Stud/ Butch, it is a general “unspoken rule” that she will choose to wear men’s clothing. Primarily, many lesbian Studs/ Butch “feel more comfortable” in men’s clothing than women’s clothing. According to this statement, the way a lesbian dresses is not only indicative of the way she prefers to identify herself; it is also a way that allows her to feel comfortable with her identity.
Another important factor in selecting an identity has to do with sexual preference. Sub- identities in the lesbian community illustrate the ideal form of a relationship. The ideal form of a lesbian relationship refers to the social construction and or belief of what sub-identities belong together. If a lesbian identifies as a Femme, she is automatically seen as a woman who is attracted to only Studs/Butches. However, she can be attracted to another Femme, or even Stemme. Essentially many lesbians classify themselves according to the attraction of identity and who they feel is compatible. It is important to note that although sexual preference plays a huge role in identity, it does not limit or control non-traditional lesbian relationships. Thus, a Stud/ Butch and another Stud/ Butch can be in a relationship even though they presume the same identity.
*From this blog I learned that an individuals identity is defined in so many ways. In the lesbian community identity is very important because it allows lesbian women to express themselves and relate to other lesbians. As a result, self- representation creates a system in which lesbians classify themselves and build intimate relationships with each other including members of the same group or sub-group.
Work Cited:
Observation-
Six Flags New England, “Out at the Park,” Saturday September 19, 2009
Female Interview, Interviewed by N. Smith, Phone Interview, September 28, 2009
Goodloe, Amy
1993,1999 Lesbian Identity and the Politics of Butch-Femme Roles, Internet Document
http://www.lesbian.org/amy/essays/bf-paper.html, accessed September 26, 2009
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