Queer theory provides a framework for questioning, complicating, and resisting binary systems to promote flexibility in individual and relational identities. Queer theorists consider gender and sexuality to be socially and culturally constructed concepts. The goal of queer theory is to challenge traditional academic approaches and fight against social inequality. Analysis from a queer perspective has the potential to undermine the base structure on which any identity relies.

According to Jay Stewart, "Queer theory and politics necessarily celebrate transgression in the form of visible difference from norms. These 'Norms' are then exposed to be norms, not natures or inevitabilities. Gender and sexual identities are seen, in much of this work, to be demonstrably defiant definitions and configurations."

Fundamentally, queer theory does not construct or defend any particular identity. Through the process of deconstruction, it works to actively critique heteronormativity, exposing and breaking down traditional assumptions that sexual and gender identities are presumed to be heterosexual or cisgender.