Tensions between gays and the bakla

What is it about?

Gay men and bakla (a term used in the Philippines to refer to effeminate gay men) have long faced invisibility in society. This has made any opportunity to express their gender identity a welcome chance to be visible. This study examined how gay men and bakla represent themselves on dating apps and how these representations can create tension within the LGBTQ+ community. The study interviewed 10 gay men and 10 bakla to understand their self-representations and the reasons behind them. The findings showed that gay men on dating apps often displayed heteronormative gay masculinity, meaning that they presented themselves in a way that conformed to traditional masculine ideals. On the other hand, most bakla self-censored their profiles to get matches and dates. However, some bakla refused to be invisible and used the apps as a space to express their authentic gender identity. The study also found that technology can enable masculine idealizations emphasizing hegemonic masculinity while reinforcing bakla invisibility. This means that dating apps can perpetuate the idea that there is only one way to be a gay man and that bakla are not seen as legitimate members of the LGBTQ+ community. Overall, this study provides important insights into how gay men and bakla represent themselves on dating apps and the implications of these representations for the LGBTQ+ community.

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Photo by Isi Parente on Unsplash

Photo by Isi Parente on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The research is important because it provides insights into how gay men and bakla in the Philippines represent themselves on dating apps. This is important because dating apps are becoming increasingly popular in the Philippines, a major way gay men and bakla meet potential partners. This research is important because it helps raise awareness of the challenges gay men and bakla face on dating apps. It also provides insights into how technology can be used to reinforce gender stereotypes. This research can help to inform the development of more inclusive dating apps that are welcoming to all members of the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to the abovementioned reasons, this research is important because it provides a voice to bakla in the Philippines. Bakla are often marginalized and discriminated against, and this research gives them a platform to share their experiences and perspectives. The findings of this research can help to challenge stereotypes about bakla and to promote greater understanding and acceptance of this community.

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