An examination of factors related to receptivity and inclusiveness of gay, lesbian and bisexual issues
Abstract
This study identified factors related to homophobic and heterosexist beliefs and attitudes which, once identified, can be utilized by educators, counselors and psychologists. Previous research has discussed effects of homophobic and heterosexist beliefs, however few studies have focused on the identification of variables of receptivity and inclusiveness for use in educational curriculum. Factors in this study included gender; age; race; income range; community and region of participants; political affiliation; religious affiliation and level of religious involvement; sexual orientation; type of education received; marital and family status; number of children in the family and type of education used for children; relationship with someone who identifies as gay, lesbian or bisexual; and educational level. Data was collected from 159 students attending Tennessee State University. The sample was comprised of 124 females and 35 males ranging in age from 18 to 46 years. Information was also collected regarding observation and intervention in hate crimes, beliefs regarding legalization of marriage in Tennessee and nationwide, and beliefs regarding introduction of a curriculum inclusive of gay, lesbian and bisexual issues into the school system. The overall findings of this study indicated a relationship between factors such as gender, age, race, education, political and religious affiliation with levels of homophobia and heterosexism. Additionally, variables such as identifying as gay, lesbian or bisexual and knowing someone who is gay, lesbian or bisexual were correlated with lower levels of homophobic and heterosexist beliefs.
Subject Area
Social psychology|Academic guidance counseling
Recommended Citation
Lisa A Beavers,
"An examination of factors related to receptivity and inclusiveness of gay, lesbian and bisexual issues"
(2005).
ETD Collection for Tennessee State University.
Paper AAI3187585.
https://digitalscholarship.tnstate.edu/dissertations/AAI3187585