> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://gang-gems.gitbook.io/qtv/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://gang-gems.gitbook.io/qtv/introduction/glossary-of-key-terms.md).

# Glossary of Key Terms

To better understand how LGBTQ+ characters are portrayed, we include a glossary of key terms commonly used in LGBTQ+ theory and media studies. This glossary is based on the *Where We Are on TV 2023/2024* report by GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ+ media advocacy organization.

> **Asexual**\
> Describes people who do not experience sexual attraction. A person can also be aromantic, meaning they do not experience romantic attraction.

> **Bisexual**\
> Describes someone who feels attraction to more than one gender. Bisexuality isn’t defined by experience — one can identify as bisexual regardless of past relationships.

> **Bisexual Umbrella/Bisexual+**\
> An inclusive term for people who are attracted to more than one gender. Includes bisexual, pansexual, fluid, queer, and others.

> **Gender Expression**\
> How someone expresses gender outwardly — via clothes, voice, behavior, etc. Gender expression may or may not align with gender identity.

> **Gender Identity**\
> One’s deeply held sense of gender, which may or may not match their assigned sex at birth. It is internal and not visible to others.

> **NonBinary**\
> Describes individuals whose gender identity is outside the male/female binary. They may identify somewhere in between or as a different category altogether.

> **Queer**\
> An umbrella term for those whose sexual orientation is not exclusively heterosexual. Some use it as a more fluid label than gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

> **Transgender**\
> Describes someone whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned at birth. Being transgender is not tied to physical appearance or medical transition.

***

### Fair and Unfair Representation

When we talk about how LGBTQ+ characters are portrayed in teen dramas, we distinguish between **Fair** and **Unfair** representation.

#### ✅ Fair Representation

Fair portrayals are respectful, realistic, and fully integrated into the story — treating LGBTQ+ characters as full, complex individuals.

> **Complexity and Depth**\
> Queer characters have full personalities, goals, flaws, and development. They are not reduced to clichés or used as plot tools.

> **Normalizing Relationships**\
> LGBTQ+ relationships are shown as valid and ordinary, treated with the same care and narrative weight as heterosexual ones.

> **Affirmation of Identity**\
> Characters' identities are affirmed within the story — through support, self-acceptance, or a community that embraces them.

> **Challenging Discrimination**\
> When issues like homophobia or transphobia are shown, they are handled thoughtfully, portraying the complexity of lived experiences — not just trauma.

***

#### ❌ Unfair Representation

Unfair portrayals can reinforce stereotypes, marginalize queer experiences, or use queerness for diversity optics without depth.

> **Stereotyping**\
> Queer characters are one-dimensional, defined only by their identity without personality or complexity.

> **Tokenism**\
> An LGBTQ+ character is added just to appear inclusive, but they lack development or importance in the storyline. Often, they serve as sidekicks to straight leads.

> **Tragic Tropes**\
> LGBTQ+ characters suffer or die simply because of their identity. A common example is the "bury your gays" trope, where queer lives are shown as inherently tragic.

> **Queerbaiting**\
> Media hints at LGBTQ+ themes or relationships but never follows through — used to attract queer audiences without committing to real representation.