86. Turn Off Your Code-Switching

A Jaded Gay

Gay men sometimes shift between different modes of expression, including language, behavior, or mannerisms, to navigate between their authentic identity and societal expectations or contexts related to their sexual orientation. Known as code-switching, this practice can reinforce societal norms that marginalize certain linguistic or cultural expressions, leading us to suppress our authentic identities and perpetuating a sense of disconnection or internal conflict.
In this episode, we’re taking a look into the intricate history of code-switching, how it manifests within the LGBTQ+ community, and ways we can cultivate an inclusive environment, where authenticity thrives and the necessity to code-switch diminishes.
Related Episodes:

• Listen to Episode 10. Out in the Workplace
• Listen to Episode 85. Boundaries: How to Understand and Set Them

Additional Resources:

• Code-Switching Definition (Merriam-Webster)
• Code-Switching (Britannica)
• Sociolinguistics (Britannica)
• BetterUp
• What is Code Switching and How Does It Impact Teams?
• Code-Switching: What Does It Mean and Why Do People Do It?
• Code Switching: Exploring the Types & Impact
• Redditors Sound Off On ‘Gay Voice’ and Whether They Code-Switch
• The Exhausting Work of LGBTQ Code-Switching

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Chapters

1. Snarky Opener (00:00:00)

2. Episode Introduction (00:00:26)

3. Code-Switching (00:01:47)

4. Tarot (00:03:00)

5. What is Code-Switching? (00:04:18)

6. Early Observations of Code-Switching (00:04:53)

7. Modern Definition of Code-Switching (00:05:53)

8. Types of Code-Switching (00:06:24)

9. Examples of Code-Switching (00:06:45)

10. Contextual Identity vs. Absolute Identity (00:07:28)

11. Reasons Why People Code-Switch (00:08:52)

12. Effects of Code-Switching (00:10:40)

13. Gay Men and Code-Switching (00:12:01)

14. A Matter of Life or Death (00:13:57)

15. Examples of Queer Code-Switching (00:15:22)

16. Create a More Accepting Environment (00:18:13)

17. Episode Closing (00:20:57)

18. Connect with A Jaded Gay (00:24:12)

19. Connect with A Jaded Gay (00:25:50)