The bear subculture, based on the problem of a scarce theoretical production that makes the phenomenon almost unknown in the country, makes the present study a pioneer in the field. The research is exploratory with a non-probabilistic sample for convenience, being made up of six participants aged 21 to 30 years old, gays and self-conceived bears. Semi-structured interviews were performed, whose data were analyzed using transcripts and subsequent categorization. The findings indicate a subordinated masculinity, tinted with hetero-identification, and affirmed in heteronormativity and in a fetishized body in clear opposition to some stereotypes of thinness. The expression on their condition is relegated to night life and entertainment experiences dyed with discrimination and violation of rights. Bear sexuality in Santiago of Chile is highly rated as a morbid and promiscuous activity. Practices concerning the complete body sexualization are mentioned in detriment of the genitalization. In parallel the figure of the bear is conceived as significantly intolerant and discriminatory with respect to other masculinities. Relevance of the results lies on providing a framework of analysis to understand the reality of new male homosexual identities offering to competent authorities the possibility of visualization of new social actors on the border of male sexuality.
Benavides-Meriño, D. (2017). Bears, Conceptualizing Their Masculinities in Santiago of Chile. Revista De Psicología, 25(2). https://doi.org/10.5354/0719-0581.2016.44792
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