Laetitia Zeeman

Laetitia Zeeman has developed a research and scholarly focus in the field of gender, sexuality and health. The central principles of this work question dominant discourses of health to recognise the strengths and abilities of people when they face adversity or have gained experience of health problems. When health discourses are actively deconstructed, via the narratives people tell of their lives, we make visible how these stories inform identify formation and wellbeing. The overarching aim of this work is to take account of the health and social inequalities that underpin adversity, and more specifically to reduce the inequalities of specific populations. By opening up discourses of health and healthcare, and by tackling health inequalities, we can re-imagine participatory and socially just healthcare systems and clinical practice leading to material change.

My research explores the intersections between gender, sexuality and health where factors such as heteronormativity, minority stress and discrimination contribute to health and social inequalities of LGBTQ+ people. The political aim of this work is to address the causes of inequalities underpinning the adversity experienced by minority groups. This research considers how barriers can be overcome by health professionals when providing care to LGBT+ people, and how to address the obstacles LGBT+ people face when accessing healthcare. The output informs health service development and delivery for those who lead non-normative lives by acknowledging gender and sexual plurality.

Students learn best when engaged and inspired. As a result I prefer learning and teaching activities that are collaborative where students participate in discussion and critical debate to generate alternative ways of thinking. Drawing on contemporary health and critical social theory we aim to make meaning of lived experience and other sources of knowledge to inform our writing and research. Recent focus areas include:

• Mental health
• Critical discourse analysis
• Narrative inquiry
• Critical reflection
• Research appraisal
• Values-based practice
• Culture, health and wellbeing
• Gender and sexualities
• Health and social inequalities
• Resilience and asset-based approaches to promote health
• Diversity awareness