Heteronormativity - meaning and definition
Alsoheteronormativeheterosexismhetero normativity
Definition
The assumption that heterosexuality is the normal or default orientation, and that relationships follow a man-woman pattern.
At a glance
- The assumption that heterosexuality is the default.
- Also assumes relationships follow a man-woman pattern.
- Shows up in forms, assumptions about partners and media stories.
- Often goes unnoticed by people it fits.
- A concept from queer theory.
In detail
Heteronormativity shows up in everyday details: forms asking only for "mother and father", assumptions about someone's partner, or stories where every couple is a man and a woman. It often goes unnoticed by people it fits.
The concept comes from queer theory and helps explain why LGBTQ+ people feel they have to keep coming out, and why their relationships can be treated as exceptions.
In a sentence
- Asking new colleagues about their wife or husband by default is a small example of heteronormativity.
- The school updated its forms to say parent or carer, to move away from heteronormativity.
Where the word comes from
The term was coined by social theorist Michael Warner in 1991 and became a key concept in queer theory.
Common questions
What is an example of heteronormativity?
Assuming a woman's partner must be a man, forms that only ask for a mother and a father, or stories where every couple is a man and a woman. Each is small, but together they treat other relationships as exceptions.
Is heteronormativity the same as homophobia?
No. Homophobia is prejudice or hostility. Heteronormativity is an assumption built into everyday life, which can exist without any ill intent but still leaves LGBTQ+ people feeling invisible.