Katelyn Smitley

Welcome to my capstone page! Below I share information about my capstone research, post-grad plans, and what I truly love about sociology!

Katelyn Smitley

They/Them/Theirs

Binary Busting: Trans* Experiences of Hyper Gender Expression & Community

Abstract

My study examined how trans* and gender non-conforming people experience pressures to present inside of the gender-binary and does this presentation change based on community support. I conducted in-depth interviews with ten people who identified as trans* and/or gender non-conforming. Three themes were identified from interviews as to how the participants expression was impacted by community, (1) pressure towards gender confusion, (2) barriers to self-love, and (3) pressure away from an individualized understanding of gender. Increasing community support can also increase the overall well-being of trans* and gender non-conforming people.

Post Graduation Plans

I plan to search for a job in the Tacoma-Olympia area with a non-profit or community organization.

Favorite Sociologists/Theorists

Patricia Hill Collins

Erving Goffman

Paulo Freire

Majors

Sociology Major

Psychology Major

Women's and Gender Studies Major

What I Love About Sociology

I love to learn about my surroundings and larger social structures.

I love using sociological theories and concepts to understand the world.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank my mom who is my biggest supporter. Dr. Leon-Guerrero, Dr. Luther, Dr. McCloud, Dr. Jen Smith and Dr. Fitzwater for their mentorship and encouragement through capstone and my time at PLU. And to my friends who always inspire and motivate me.