Introduction

This section introduces the book by discussing the concept of “tribe”, “team” and “chosen family”, which are essential for the wellbeing of the GSRD populations. This book focuses on the relational lives of GSRD people, specifically those who do not conform to society’s dominant narrative of relationships. The introduction emphasises that meaningful connections are so important for good mental health, and the therapeutic relationship is crucial for good therapy. It also highlights how GSRD people are in connections with the majority populations of white, heterosexual, cisgender people by explaining how LGBTQIA+ people have influenced and taught less restrictive ways to be in intimate partnerships with others, but also the relationship we have with ourselves. Living on the fringe of society means that LGBTQIA+ have put forward how we can love differently, which ultimately has benefited everybody, including heterosexual people.