#CSAM18 Day 30: Theoretical Borderlands

By working between two theoretical frameworks, queer theory and constructivism, Abes explored power structure and research within student affairs. She studied ten lesbian college students longitudinally over four years using a constructivist theoretical approach, meaning in-depth interviews. However, one of the themes to come out of the research was that the students needed to grapple with heterosexism, and a constructivist approach would not have allowed Abes to explore that type of power structure. Abes then incorporated queer theory to explain the struggle with heteronormativity, and re-examined the interviews using a queer theory lens. Neither theory provided a complete framework to understand the experiences of the students, but by using both, educators can better understand those experiences.

Title of theory: Theoretical Borderlands

Year theory was published: 2009

Students originally studied: 10 lesbian students and two major theoretical approaches to research

Background of the author: Dr. Elisa Abes is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies of Student Affairs in Higher Education at Miami University of Ohio. Dr. Abes has a PhD in Higher Education & Student Affairs from The Ohio State University, a JD from Harvard Law School, and a BA in English from The Ohio State University. She has received numerous awards from ACPA, has published a book, chapters, and articles focusing on theory and inclusivity in student affairs and higher education.

How theory can be used now: When we look at students and their experiences, we need to understand that a single theory or framework probably isn't going to explain every facet of that student or their experience. By utilizing multiple theories, and coming from multiple perspectives, we can better understand and serve our students.We also need to be aware of the theories we may think apply to students based on our own lenses and experiences.

Words of warning: None

Abes, Elisa S. "Theoretical Borderlands: Using Multiple Theoretical Perspectives to Challenge Inequitable Power Structures in Student Development Theory." Journal of College Student Development 50.2 (2009): 141-56. ProQuest. Web. 27 Oct. 2018.
http://miamioh.edu/ehs/academics/departments/edl/about/faculty-staff/abes/index.html

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