Abstract
BackgroundThis study investigates the multifaceted nature of identity formation among older LGBTQ+ individuals working as hosts on LGBTQ+ homestay platforms. Existing literature underscores the complex interplay of age, gender, and sexual identity in shaping experiences of discrimination and marginalisation. Older LGBTQ+ hosts face unique challenges, including ageist attitudes from guests and platform operators, which compound the difficulties in maintaining an authentic self-presentation. The study aims to explore how these individuals navigate their identities and assert authenticity amidst societal biases. This research fills a crucial gap by providing a nuanced understanding of how ageism intersects with other identity dimensions, offering insights into the broader cultural norms influencing these experiences.
Methods
The research was conducted in three phases to explore the identity formation and experiences of older LGBTQ+ hosts on homestay platforms. Phase 1 involved semi-structured interviews with eleven hosts aged 50 and above, focusing on their personal experiences and the impact of ageism. Phase 2 included nineteen interviews with guests of LGBTQ+ homestay platforms to examine the perpetuation of ageist attitudes and stereotypes. Phase 3 focused on the platform itself, analysing policies, practices, and feedback mechanisms to understand how they address or exacerbate ageism. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes across the different phases.
Findings
The findings reveal the dynamics of identity and discrimination faced by older LGBTQ+ hosts on homestay platforms. The concept of ocularcentric authenticity highlights the pressure on older hosts to conform to youthful and heteronormative standards of appearance. In contrast, non-ocularcentric authenticity underscores deeper markers of authenticity such as psychological well-being. The study also uncovers how the marketing strategies of these platforms perpetuate ageism, favouring younger users and marginalising older hosts. Additionally, the relational dynamics between hosts, guests, and platforms reveal the prevalence of ageist attitudes, with older hosts feeling compelled to align with youth-centric ideals to attract guests and maintain hosting activities.
Conclusion
The study concludes that older LGBTQ+ hosts on homestay platforms face significant age-related challenges and discrimination, often feeling pressured to conform to youthful ideals to attract guests. It highlights that affected authenticity involves adapting one's identity to meet external expectations, influenced by ageist and heteronormative norms. Older hosts navigate a landscape where youth and traditional masculinity are privileged, impacting their perceived authenticity and value within the community. Economic pressures force older hosts to balance authenticity with marketability, complicating their lives. The research underscores the need for inclusive marketing strategies, diverse representation, and better policies to support older hosts, helping combat ageism and allowing them to maintain their authenticity while hosting.
| Date of Award | 24 Oct 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Supervisor | Russell Warhurst (Supervisor) |