The research question: How do exiled political communities reconstruct erotic identity and navigate longing for homeland and forbidden desire?
Background: Exile is defined as "the state of being forced to live outside one's own country". It has been used as a form of punishment since ancient times, including by Rome and Egypt. In modern times, it was widely used during World War II and aftermath. Since then, many people have lived in exile due to war, persecution, violence, and natural disasters. Some remain abroad permanently while others return home after years. During their stay in host countries, they often face difficulties such as cultural differences, language barriers, and lack of support networks. They may also experience feelings of nostalgia, missing friends and family left behind. Some feel guilty about leaving behind those who stayed behind. All these factors can affect their sexuality and relationships.
Research methodology: This study uses qualitative methods involving interviews with exiled members of political groups from different countries, particularly women and LGBTQ+ individuals. The data collected includes information on how they perceive sex, intimacy, and romance in their new environment compared to their past experiences. Participants were asked about their experiences with exile, dating, marriage, family life, and other aspects of daily life. The data is analyzed using thematic analysis, which involves identifying patterns and coding them into categories. These categories are then compared and contrasted to find commonalities and differences across groups.
Findings: The findings show that the concept of 'home' plays a significant role in shaping erotic identity for exiles. Many participants described homeland as a place where they felt comfortable and could express themselves freely without fear or judgment. They missed the familiar social norms and customs that influenced their choices.
Some reported feeling liberated by being away from strict rules and taboos. The research found no significant gender differences in terms of experiences, but there were notable age-related differences. Younger participants seemed more open to experimentation and exploration than older ones. Some reported experiencing longing for forbidden desire due to cultural restrictions in their home country.
Many LGBTQ+ individuals talked about hiding their orientation while living abroad.
The findings suggest that reconstructing erotic identity is complex and varies depending on personal circumstances.
Exile can have profound effects on sexuality and relationships. It is crucial to consider these factors when working with exiled communities. There are also implications for policy makers seeking to support displaced populations. This study contributes to the literature on exile, erotic identity, and intimacy. Future research could explore how exile affects mental health, wellbeing, and interpersonal relationships.
How do exiled political communities reconstruct erotic identity and navigate longing for homeland and forbidden desire?
Exiles have been dealing with the challenges of rebuilding their erotic identity and navigating longing for their homelands while living in foreign countries. They face various difficulties that affect their ability to form meaningful connections with other individuals. This is because they are not only separated from their homes but also the cultural norms that shaped them emotionally and sexually.