Research into the discursive construction of sexuality has been influenced by Michel Foucault and queer theory, particularly the work on performativity by Judith Butler. The work examines the linguistic performances of coming out as a gay man or lesbian, or equally the concealment of that identity. Work has also examined the discursive construction of heterosexuality and hegemonic masculinity. There is an emphasis on the importance of community and the fact that meaning emerges intersubjectively. The work has been challenged by scholars who feel that iterable differences between categories of homosexual and heterosexual have not been established, and that scholars should make the articulation of desire the principal object of study.