Growing Up Pure by Lauren D. Sawyer - 9781479838455

New York University Press

Explore the intersection of race and gender in the formation of purity culture with "Growing Up Pure." This insightful book examines how racial ideologies shaped the experiences of white girls and queer teens within purity movements. Delve into the complex social and cultural forces that defined notions of innocence and sexuality for young people. "Growing Up Pure" offers a critical perspective on the racial foundations underpinning widely held beliefs about purity and adolescence. Key themes include: * The construction of whiteness in relation to purity standards. * The unique challenges faced by queer teens within purity culture. * The historical and social impact of purity movements. * An analysis of memoirs and cultural texts to understand lived experiences. This paperback edition provides a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect of social history and cultural studies. "Growing Up Pure: White Girls, Queer Teens, and the Racial Foundations of Purity Culture" is an essential read for anyone interested in gender studies, queer theory, and the sociology of adolescence.