Doing Drag: Exploring the Experiences of Drag as an Occupation for Performers in California

Background: Drag is a performative art where individuals explore identity, challenge societal norms, and foster community through exaggerated gendered performance. Drag in the United States is facing potential restrictions and remains underexplored in occupational science and occupational therapy literature. Methods: This qualitative study explored the experiences of drag performers in California, applying an occupational perspective through the framework of form, function, and meaning. Five drag performers were interviewed. Reflective thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative data. Findings: Identity was the central theme, interconnected with form, belonging, non-belonging, meaning and motivation, and resistive occupation. Findings highlight drag as a transformative occupation supporting identity exploration and community connections, while resisting societal norms. Drag can provide a space for self-expression, yet there are also challenges, including prejudice in and outside of the drag community. Conclusion: Our research highlights drag’s significance as a multifaceted occupation, advocating for its recognition in occupational science and therapy to support identity self-expression and exploration, belonging, and resistance. Drag is ultimately positioned not only as an art form but as an occupation rooted in resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of social justice.