Misconceptions And Effects Of Homophobia

Misconceptions about homosexuality include: that homosexuals created HIV or that sexuality is a choice or that gay individuals are feminine and lesbians are masculine. Even though they may not seem to be, the effects of homophobia can be fatal. Many individuals who learn about their non-heterosexuality are in a vulnerable place—especially younger people. When exposed to homophobic opinions on homosexuality from their community, it leaves many of these lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual youth feeling alone, scared, humiliated, confused, and ashamed which can higher their risk for self-harm, homelessness, substance abuse, or suicide. Studies show that “gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender teens are two to three times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual youth because of homophobia” (Cozza, 2003). The leading cause of death for the youth in the homosexual community is suicide—which can be accredited to society’s homophobic and prejudiced attitudes. These attitudes can quickly turn to pure hatred toward homosexual people. Organizations who encourage these ideologies, such as the Boy Scouts of America, have policies that discriminate against gays and encourage this hatred toward that community. Being gay in itself is not what causes these individuals to hurt themselves or commit suicide, it’s

However, the effects of homophobia can be. Because of its victimization, homophobia can distort the mental health of both homo- and heterosexual individuals. “A healthy community requires an end to the conspiracy of silence about homosexuality through open discussion and confrontation of homophobia wherever it appears, by gays and straights alike” (“Homophobia”). Only then will society be able to progress. As time goes by, however, these characteristics in individuals are not the only ones being attacked. More and more people are beginning to suffer because of their faith and beliefs as