Digitalizing queer intimacy : LGBTQ in the online world

• Main Authors: Ho, Denise Jia Ni, Lee, Amanda Xin Ting, Liow, Daphne Ying Xin
• Other Authors: Sulfikar Amir
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2019
• Subjects: Social sciences::Sociology
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/78698
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The dating sphere is undergoing a transformation with the increasing use of mobile dating applications (MDAs). Existing literature in Singapore widely covers the use of MDAs by the heterosexual community, but not the LGBTQ community. In Singapore, where a unique dichotomy exists between traditional heteronormativity and liberalization of LGBTQ issues, our study seeks to analyse how MDAs shape the dating practices of LGBTQ individuals and how individuals belonging to this marginalized group in society navigate their way around the state’s restrictions and their own personal goals. Our study suggests that most LGBTQ individuals view MDAs as a “stepping stone” to fulfilling goals pertaining to relationships, be it for forming support networks or in search for a potential romantic partner. Our findings also suggest that MDAs play an important role in LGBTQ individuals’ dating lives as these applications provide a safe platform, creating a distance from societal stigma and prejudice for them to pursue their relationship needs.