Queer here : parasocially bridging intersectionality and situated knowledge within the LGBT community

Abstract

Using qualitative methods, this research looked at how queer audiences engaged with the queer created docuseries We're Here. This research explored the relationship between parasocial relationships and Situated Knowledge, while contextualizing findings through a Queer Theory lens. This research used an experienced queerness and learned queerness framework to better understand the parasocial relationship that viewers form when using their own queerness as a baseline. To triangulate data, I compared the intent of the show by the executive producers with the received messaging by queer audiences. I found that queer viewers of the show were able to gain a stronger sense of identity, a sense of community, and visualization of allyship. Findings also suggested that queer viewers felt triggered by parasocially experiencing other people's negative queer experiences. This show educated queer audiences about intersectionalities of the LGBTQIA+ community that audiences have not personally encountered outside of the show. The study analyzes a creator's role in a parasocial relationship. In other words, how their portrayal of a queer character effects the relationship a spectator forms with a performer. This research contextualized the Situated Knowledge existing in the storytelling of this show, queer people telling queer stories for queer audiences.