Usage, reading and interpreting of nonverbal signs of erotic interest among Norwegian lesbians

Abstract

The main aim of the present qualitative study was to explore the means of nonverbal communication lesbian women display to signal interest/sexual attraction to a potential female partner, and what nonverbal markers of communication lesbians evaluate as signs of erotic interest when addressed to them. Different learning processes through/in which women acquire and internalize these nonverbal behaviors are also discussed. Finally, the possible factors may influence the processes of signalizing, reading and interpreting of the means of nonverbal communication among lesbians were revealed. Qualitative, in-depth face-to-face interviews were carried out. A hermeneutical-phenomenological approach to analysis was applied. A diverse variety of nonverbal signs and behaviors indicating erotic interest used by and toward lesbians were identified. Verbal statements in combination with nonverbal signals were found to be an integral part of the lesbian flirting script. Regarding the learning process, life experiences, lesbian friends/acquaintances, books/articles, and feature films are those sources through which the informants claimed to had acquired knowledge about the lesbian flirting script. Findings also indicate that alcohol, presence or absence of personal interest, and self-confidence are those factors that may meddle in and influence the processes of signalizing, reading and interpreting of nonverbal signs of erotic interest among lesbians.