THE GENDER ISSUES AND IDENTITIES OF THE YOUNG TOMBOY AND LESBIAN IN CHIANG MAI AND PHITSANULOK OF THAILAND

Abstract

This article aims to study the gender identities of young tomboy/transman and lesbian in Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai province, and Pibulsongkram Rajabhat University, Phitsanulok province of Thailand. It also aims to reflect the gender issues of LGBTI people in Thai society, particularly in educational institutions. The research method employed the qualitative research method with the in-depth interview and focus group with the undergraduate students. It was found that the expression of gender identities and sexualities of young tomboys and lesbians is mostly related to family acceptance. Even though the young tomboys and lesbians are freely open themselves and their identities are more accepted in Thai society, but it still has the hidden problem on gender issues behind this open environment. These include a gender discrimination, a social pressure and a family expectation in heterosexual aspects, and sexual harassment in schools and workplaces. In particular, verbal sexual harassment is still an important problem for the actual acceptance in the gender diversity of Thai society. Therefore, gender issues on discrimination and sexual violence could happen at the same time in several social communities such as schools, families, and workplaces. This situation importantly reflects the lack of understanding and education on the gender diversity of Thai schools and society.