Public Homophobia and the Privatisation of Homosexuality. Everyday Lives of Gay and Lesbian Couples in Slovenia
Public Homophobia and the Privatisation of Homosexuality. Everyday Lives of Gay and Lesbian Couples in Slovenia

Summary/Abstract: The article deals with the everyday lives of gays and lesbians in Slovenia and, more specifically, with the transformation of intimacy among them. The analysis is based on data from the first Slovenian sociological research in the field. The main idea is that in some characteristics (equal division of labour, commitment, reflexive relationship) same-sex relationships are becoming “pure relationships”. However, the heteronormative framework of broader society importantly defines them. The transformation of intimacy seems to differ for heterosexuals and homosexuals. The everyday lives of gays and lesbians are framed, for example, by a high level of homophobia and violence in public space while, on the other hand, they are being privatised and closed off within private networks of friends, intimate partners and, to some extent, the family.

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