ABSTRACT
In this introductory chapter, I argue that there are important differences across lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) slurs and slur usage that are essential to examine. After describing the six LGBTQ slurs that are investigated in this text, “fag,” “dyke,” “tranny,” “queer,” “no homo,” and “that's so gay,” I articulate why it is especially important to examine different types of LGBTQ slurs as separate but related phenomena. In addition, I offer key concepts (i.e., LGBTQ slurs as foils, the Queer Adjustment), and theoretical contributions (i.e., Theoretical Model of LGBTQ Slur Use and Norm-Centered Stigma Theory [NCST]) as integral to understanding LGBTQ slur use. An outline of the body of the text is then provided. Finally, the goals of this text are listed as: (1) to expose and dismantle slurs and slur users in an effort to build a deeper understanding of how to disrupt systemic anti-LGBTQ cultural dynamics and work toward increased efforts to support LGBTQ people, (2) to provide a theoretically-informed and empirical analysis of the sociological patterns of LGBTQ slur usage by testing NCST by highlighting the significance of hetero-cis-normativity and intersectionality in understanding LGBTQ stigmatization, and (3) to continue to stress the importance of separate but interconnected discussions about prejudices directed toward LGBTQ people so that ultimately, such negativities can be dismantled and ameliorated.
