The theory of social representations: methodological contributions to the research on homoerotism

Abstract

This article seeks to demonstrate the methodological usefulness of the Social Representations (S.R.) Theory when approaching the forms and processes by which social thought on different social realities is constructed, particularly in terms of male committed relationships, as a part of homoeroticism. In order to achieve this objective, the aforementioned theory has been implemented as the methodological approach of the research project from which this article is derived, which refers to male committed relationships in individuals with homoerotic practices, in relation to the ―worldview‖ from which they act and assume a position before such social reality.  Methodologically, this investigation adopted two approaches for the study of S.R., as summarized by Pereira de Sá   ( 8991 )  , cited by Banch (2000:1): the processual approach developed by Denise Jodelet (1984), centered around the complexity of representations, and the proposal by Jean Claude Abric, known as the structural approach, because it focuses on the processes by which S.R. are structured. Based on these two approaches it was possible to identify the core of the S. R. under study, as expressed in this sentence: ―Male committed relationships: A social reality wished as part of an individual life plan, but hard to be built‖.  The structure identified in this S.R. core (constitutive and peripheral elements) will be thoroughly analyzed throughout this article, in order to demonstrate the importance of the S.R. Theory for social studies.