2010/03/01 by William DeJean · 1 citation
Social Sciences · #Gender Roles and Identity Studies #Children's Rights and Participation #Historical Gender and Feminism Studies
paper · doi:10.1177/183693911003500103
openalex publication_date 2010/03/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21
SEXUALITIES IN THE FIELD OF early childhood remains an abstract concept for some, yet for others it is a reality experienced from the moment one prepares to enter the field. Using a narrative ethnography, which calls for the voice of the ‘researcher’ and ‘participant’ to be made visible, this paper explores sexualities in early childhood from the perspective of one lesbian early childhood preservice teacher who must negotiate her identity within the location of university studies and early childhood placement. The paper concludes with recommendations on ways for queer teacher education to support preservice teachers entering the early childhood field. Invisibility is a dangerous and painful condition. When those who have the power to name and to socially construct reality choose not to see you or hear you … there is a moment of psychic disequilibrium, as if you looked into a mirror and saw nothing (Rich, 1986, p. 199).