Chapter 10: Sexual Orientation Discussion Topics Discussion 10.1: Preference vs. Identification It is important to stress to students, that gender identity (Chapter 9) is not the same thing as homosexuality. One has to do with identifying with the cross-sex and one is what you find attractive, appealing and sexually interesting. Students often tend to uses these terms as interchangeable and it is important to note that they are distinct and that this is not a semantic issue. Ask students for their own examples of what they find attractive to illustrate attraction. It's crucial to clarify to students that gender identity and sexual orientation are distinct concepts. Gender identity, as discussed in Chapter 9, refers to a person's internal sense of their own gender, whether they identify as male, female, both, neither, or something else entirely. On the other hand, sexual orientation refers to whom a person is romantically or sexually attracted to. Students often mistakenly use these terms interchangeably, but they are not synonymous. Gender identity is about how individuals see themselves in terms of gender, while sexual orientation is about whom they are attracted to. For example, a person who identifies as female may be attracted to other females (lesbian), males (straight), both (bisexual), or neither (asexual). To illustrate the distinction, students can be asked to share examples of what they find attractive. This can help reinforce the idea that sexual orientation is about attraction, while gender identity is about identity. Understanding these differences is crucial for creating an inclusive and respectful environment for individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Discussion 10.2: Self-Determination of Orientation How much choice do you have over what you find attractive? Ask students how much influence they think they have over their orientation; beyond being attracted to males or females what about hair color, eye color, body shape in others? What factors do they think shaped their interest in these specific things? The question of how much choice individuals have over what they find attractive is complex and multifaceted. While some aspects of attraction may be influenced by societal norms and personal experiences, others may be more innate or biologically determined. When considering sexual orientation, research suggests that it is not something that individuals choose, but rather an inherent aspect of who they are. Most people do not choose whom they are attracted to; it is a natural and deeply ingrained part of their identity. However, when it comes to other aspects of attraction, such as preferences for hair color, eye color, or body shape, the influence of societal norms, personal experiences, and cultural factors may play a more significant role. For example, media portrayal of beauty standards, personal experiences with individuals of certain characteristics, and cultural norms regarding attractiveness can all shape an individual's preferences. Ultimately, the extent to which individuals have control over what they find attractive is likely a combination of both innate predispositions and external influences. While some aspects of attraction may be more malleable and influenced by societal factors, others may be more fixed and inherent to an individual's nature. Discussion 10.3: The History of Homosexuality In the late 1800s, when the term heterosexuality was introduced, famed American psychologist William James considered heterosexuality to be “abnormal.” James stated in his lectures at Harvard University that heterosexuality must be a perversion because it restricted desire to only one gender (the opposite gender), not two. Like Freud, James believed that “normal sex” development ought to include desire for both genders, even if society dictated that normal relationships are between men and women. In the late 1800s, the concept of sexual orientation was still in its early stages of development, and societal views on sexuality were evolving. The term "heterosexuality" was introduced around this time, and it was initially not seen as the norm. Famed American psychologist William James, in his lectures at Harvard University, considered heterosexuality to be "abnormal" because it restricted desire to only one gender, the opposite gender, rather than being open to both genders. James, like Freud and other early psychologists, believed that "normal sex" development should include the potential for desire for both genders, even if societal norms at the time dictated that normal relationships were between men and women. This perspective reflected the changing understanding of sexuality and the recognition that sexual orientation was not a simple binary concept but existed on a spectrum. It's important to note that these views were a product of their time and understanding of human sexuality. Over time, societal attitudes and scientific understanding of sexual orientation have evolved, leading to greater acceptance and recognition of the diversity of sexual orientations beyond heterosexuality. Discussion 10.4: Pray the Gay Away? Psychiatrist Robert L. Spitzer, who argued that gay men could be “cured” through treatment, in effect started the “pray the gay away” movement or “gay reparative therapy”. In Jan 2013, California mad it illegal to use therapies “to change behaviors or gender expressions, or to eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward individuals of the same sex.” In May 2012 Dr. Spitzer apologized to homosexual people for how these flawed views harmed LGBTQ people. In 2012, this “therapy” gained note due to Michelle Bachman and her husband’s involvement in taking government monies for this type of therapy. Discuss with students what the negative impact of treating something that is most likely due to biological or at least an interaction as something socially created. What kinds of harm might individuals who went through this kind of treatment suffer? Psychiatrist Robert L. Spitzer's advocacy for gay conversion therapy, also known as "pray the gay away" or "gay reparative therapy," had significant negative impacts on LGBTQ individuals. Spitzer argued that gay men could be "cured" through treatment, which contributed to the harmful practice of attempting to change individuals' sexual orientation. California's decision in January 2013 to make such therapies illegal recognized the potential harm caused by these practices. These therapies aimed to change behaviors, gender expressions, or reduce same-sex attractions, despite scientific evidence suggesting that sexual orientation is most likely due to biological or complex interactions, rather than being socially created or changeable through therapy. Individuals who underwent gay conversion therapy could suffer various harms, including psychological distress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and even suicidal ideation. These therapies often stigmatized and invalidated individuals' sexual orientations, leading to internalized homophobia and feelings of shame or inadequacy. Spitzer's apology in May 2012 acknowledged the flawed nature of his views and the harm caused by promoting conversion therapy. The involvement of public figures like Michelle Bachmann and her husband in advocating for these therapies further highlighted the need to critically evaluate the impact and ethics of such practices on LGBTQ individuals. Discussion 10.5: Being Gay Is Normal In 1957, Dr. Evelyn Hooker, a psychologist at UCLA and a married heterosexual woman, examined the personality tests of 60 individuals; one group was heterosexual and the other homosexual. She had a panel of three distinguished doctors and researchers analyze the tests without knowing the sexual orientation of the subjects. They all declared that in terms of the psychological adjustment of these 60 people, they were equal. To her shock, however, when she reported these findings, many of her scientific colleagues did not believe her. Together with psychiatrists and other researchers, she began new studies that eventually led to the creation of the blue-ribbon taskforce of the National Institute of Mental Health to reconsider all the scientific evidence regarding homosexuality as a mental disease (Bayer, 1987; Hooker, 1957). As a result of the final recommendations by this taskforce, the American Psychiatric Association declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder in 1973. At the time, this change was regarded as highly controversial and was opposed by many in society. Three decades later, however, the doctors, such as psychiatrist Robert L. Spitzer, who argued that gay men could be “cured” through treatment, have now found that they were wrong and that sexual orientation cannot be changed. Dr. Spitzer later apologized to homosexual people for how these flawed views harmed LGBTQ people (Carey, 2012). Years later, an award-winning film about Dr. Hooker’s work appeared, called Changing Our Minds, which celebrated this landmark in the rights of LGBTQ people and the achievements of the heterosexual psychologists who served as allies in the search for truth and equal treatment for LGBTQ people (http:// www.imdb.com/title/tt0103938/). Today the American Psychological Association also views LGBTQ as normal variations of human development (see APA policy statement: http://www.apa.org/topics/sorientation.html). Discussion 10.6: Online Bullying: Cyberspace Is the New “Bathroom Wall” For decades, homophobic bullying has been a serious problem in many places, including schools, playgrounds, fraternity houses, military academies, and the armed services. Social media and technology have made cyberspace the new “bathroom wall” for writing cruel and often false statements. No one is immune from cyberbullying, and LGBTQ people are especially vulnerable. To help put a stop to cyberbullying, consider these tips: Be careful to whom you provide your email address, cell phone number, etc. Do not friend people on social networking sites you do not know personally. Set privacy settings on social networking sites so only friends can see your information. Do not send anything on the Internet or cell phone that you would not want to be public. Remember that once you post something, it is out of your control. Be familiar with the policies in your school or workplace that relate to cyberbullying. Tips for targets of cyberbullying: Preserve the evidence by saving the email, text message, chat history, or offensive website post. You might respond with one clear message saying you do not want to be contacted again by this person, but do not retaliate. Save your email to show you have clearly told the person to stop. Report the incident to the appropriate officials at your school or workplace. Use technology to prevent further attacks. Block the sender of emails or text messages or un-friend cyberbullies from your social networking accounts and remove them from IM buddy lists. Report offenders to the Internet Service Provider, cellular service provider or website owner. Follow-up if your complaint is not handled promptly. Report credible threats to the police. Source: Sheri Bauman, Ph.D., professor, University of Arizona (http://uanews.org/node/33847, downloaded 4/10/12). Copyright © Sheri Bauman. Used with permission. Discussion 10.7: Gay and Lesbian Suicide Risk—The Tragic Cost of Internalized Homophobia Suicide risk is one of the great tragedies of internalized homophobia in our society, but it is a lot less known among LGBTQ people. However, researchers have gradually shown how LGBTQ people have higher rates of suicide compared to the general population (Paul et al., 2002). According to one national study, at least 15% of LGBTQ youth thought about suicide (Russell & Joyner, 2001). The consensus today is that there is more suicide risk as a result of being LGBTQ and dealing with the stressors that society imposes. A comprehensive analysis of 214,344 heterosexual and 11,971 non-heterosexual people in hundreds of studies between 1966 and 2005 found that gay people are at higher risk of mental disorders, thoughts of suicide, drug misuse, and deliberate self-harm than heterosexuals (King et al., 2008). Other research has consistently shown that gay men are many more times likely to attempt suicide in the military compared to their heterosexual military peers (Herrell et al., 1999). Suicide is a difficult problem to study when it involves teenagers who are in a sexual orientation minority (Gibson, 1989; Herdt & Boxer, 1993). One reason is that researchers may find it hard to correlate sexual orientation and suicides or suicide attempts accurately because the family may either hide the sexual orientation of a family member or hide that person’s suicide attempt to avoid social stigma. Additionally, more people consider committing suicide than attempt it (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2001), and those who consider it may never report it. Researchers do find, though, that among LGBTQ people, including different races, genders, and social classes, there appears to be a greater incidence of suicide attempts (King et al., 2008; Paul et al., 2002). What contributes to such a high suicide risk among gay men and lesbian women? Perhaps the single most important factor has to do with being bullied or otherwise victimized. Many studies have shown that gay and lesbian people are assaulted and bullied, especially in schools (Rivers & D’Augelli, 2001). Many research studies have linked this bullying to risk behaviors, especially suicide (D’Augelli, Hershberger, & Pilkington, 1998; Herdt & Boxer, 1993; Rivers & D’Augelli, 2001). The suicide of Tyler Clementi because of cyberbullying is, sadly, one such example. In a nonrandom study of 388 subjects, some surprising correlations between sexual orientation and suicide were discovered (Meyer, 2007). These New York residents identified themselves as lesbian, gay, or bisexual; male or female; and Black, White, or Latino. Of this sample, 44% were aged 18–29, 44% were 30–44, and 12% were 45–59. Researchers studied mental health disorders such as depression, and discovered that younger LGBTQ people have fewer mental health disorders than older ones. The researchers theorized that the reason is that older LGBTQ people suffer from the effects of discrimination over a longer period than the younger people (DeVries & Herdt, 2012). They also hypothesized that as society has become more liberal and attitudes have become more positive, there is less stigma and stress for younger White people. Also, they found that more Blacks and Latinos than Whites have a history of attempting suicide. This may result in a sense of hopelessness and lack of a future correlated with internalized homophobia in certain communities where homophobia is more open and the fear of family rejection is greater (Ryan et al., 2009). Having family members and loved ones who really care about someone regardless of their orientation can make all the difference in the world and give young people hope that they can be successful in life and need not consider suicide as an option (Herdt & Koff, 2000). They can give young people hope and courage to deal with the daily challenges that may include harassment, bullying, and rejection due to their sexual orientation (Herdt, 2001; Herek, 2004; LaSala, 2010; Savin-Williams, 2005). Discussion 10.8: Coming Out What are steps that people can take to communicate to others about their sexual orientation? We encourage you to be cautious and think about your safety if you decide to come out. Consider these tips while you are deciding to come out: Use the Internet to find resources that are available in your area and to find websites that are helpful. Consider talking through issues by first confiding in a dear friend or trusted family member. If you use online resources to start the process of coming out, be cautious about revealing your identity if you do not want to be out completely. Consider what information you will be comfortable sharing with other people. Keep a sexual diary to reflect on your experience regularly and to practice what you are going to say to let people know about yourself. Think about what might be the best time and place to tell others about your orientation. Talk to others who have come out to their family members before coming out to your own. Go to a campus counseling center or community agency that offers ethical and anonymous psychological services if you are distressed. As you move forward in the process of telling others about your sexual orientation, everyday ask yourself questions similar to these: Am I feeling good about myself? Are these communications helping or upsetting me? How am I coping with all the emotion? How do I feel about my own self- awareness and body today? Am I protecting myself from harm, such as bullying or homophobia? Am I sexually protecting myself from getting or passing on an STI? If others are pressuring you to take a course of action, listen to your own heart and mind about what you think is best for you; be guided by your own sense of what is right and true for you. Seek help and support from the people who really care about you. Remember to keep your own best interest upper most in your mind by staying true to yourself. 1. It's important to check in with yourself regularly to assess your emotional state. Coming out can be a complex process that may bring up a range of emotions. It's normal to feel a mix of excitement, fear, relief, and uncertainty. If the communications around your coming out are causing distress, consider talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or support group to help you cope with these emotions. 2. Self-awareness and body image can be deeply impacted by the process of coming out. It's important to practice self-compassion and acceptance. Remember that your worth is not defined by others' perceptions or expectations. Engaging in activities that promote self-care and positive body image can be helpful. 3. Your safety is paramount. If you feel unsafe or threatened, it may be necessary to take steps to protect yourself. This could include seeking support from friends, family, or community resources, or even contacting local authorities if you are experiencing harassment or violence. 4. Practicing safe sex is important for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. Using condoms and getting regular STI screenings are key ways to protect yourself and your partners. Additionally, open and honest communication with your partners about sexual health is crucial. It's important to remember that coming out is a deeply personal process, and there is no right or wrong way to navigate it. Listen to your own instincts and seek support from those who care about you. Stay true to yourself and prioritize your well-being above all else. Discussion 10.9: Can Same-Sex Couples Raise Well-Adjusted Children? Some political and social commentators believe that people can learn to be gay and so allowing gay parents to raise children can make them gay (Irvine, 2002; Stacey & Biblarz, 2001). For example, in 2008 when voters in California were to vote about legalizing same-sex marriage, a television commercial strongly hinted that young children would “learn” to be gay if same-sex marriage was made legal. No empirical evidence supports the notion that sexual attractions can be taught or learned in this way (Cianciotto & Cahill, 2010). In fact, researchers have found that this belief that people can teach others to be gay is a form of prejudice against sexual minorities (Herek, 2004). One meta-analysis of 21 studies of LGBTQ parents did show small differences between straight and gay parenting, but these differences appear to be generally positive in nature, not negative (Stacey & Biblarz, 2001). For example, daughters of lesbian couples aspire to pursue occupations more traditionally filled by men compared to their heterosexual peers (Stacey & Biblarz, 2001). The researchers also found gender differences in the behavior of the offspring of gay and lesbian families. Boys raised by lesbian mothers, for example, tended to be less assertive than traditionally raised males. There was, however, no statistical difference showing that children are more likely to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. Another study in The Netherlands looked at 100 heterosexual couples and 100 lesbian couples with children ages 4 to 8 who were raised by these couples since birth (Bos, van Balen, & van den Boom, 2007). Data were collected using questionnaires, observations, and a diary of activities to understand if there were differences in child adjustment, parental characteristics, and child rearing. The researchers found that lesbian mothers who were not the biological mothers differ from heterosexual fathers in certain parental characteristics: The mothers experienced more satisfaction with their partner as a co-parent and in child rearing; they also expressed more parental concern and less power assertion over the child. Another group of researchers confirmed these patterns and found that 17-year-olds raised from birth by lesbian mothers are as happy as their peers, and the mothers’ quality of life is equal to or better than matched heterosexual parents (van Gelderen, Bos, Gartrell, Hermanns, & Perrin, 2012). In general, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP, 2011) has found that children who have LGBTQ parents: Are not more likely to be gay than children with heterosexual parents. Are not more likely to be sexually abused. Do not show differences in whether they think of themselves as male or female (gender identity). Do not show differences in their male and female behaviors (gender role behavior). In simple terms, people do not learn to be LGBTQ, any more than they learn to be straight. Given all of this research, you might ask yourself what controversy remains? The key issue is what the long-term effects will be on these children. We simply do not know yet how the children will do when they are grown adults. This is an example of how research can help you form an opinion and increase your sexual literacy. Do you believe that LGBTQ parents are effective in raising well-adjusted children, and have each child’s well-being in mind? Yes: The meta-study suggests that while there are some gender differences with the LGBTQ offspring, overall the children seem to do pretty well. LGBTQ families don’t seem to produce more sexual minority children compared to other heterosexual families—that seems to be a myth. The Dutch study showed that the children of the LGBTQ families are as happy as the straight children (van Gelderen, Bos, Gartrell, Hermanns, & Perrin, 2012). Even if the girls do have more nontraditional occupations when they grow up from the lesbian households, so what? That could be a positive thing. No: The meta-analysis did find small differences in gender, such as boys raised by mothers who are lesbian being somewhat less masculine, and that could affect them when they are adults. Children of LGBTQ parents may get teased or bullied in school, which could be hurtful. Women entering occupations that are more traditionally filled by men such as firefighters or police officers suggest that their lesbian mothers may be less effective in terms of traditional parental styles. We just don’t know yet what the long-term effects of LGBTQ parents will be on their children’s adjustment. What’s Your Perspective? 1. Do you believe that LGBTQ parents can be effective in raising their offspring? Why or why not? Yes, LGBTQ parents can be effective in raising their offspring. Research indicates that children raised by LGBTQ parents do not show differences in sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender role behavior compared to children raised by heterosexual parents. Studies also suggest that LGBTQ parents are as capable as heterosexual parents in providing a nurturing and supportive environment for their children. While there may be some small differences in gender-related behaviors, overall, the children of LGBTQ parents seem to do well and are as happy as children raised by heterosexual parents. 2. Are the gender differences in offspring of LGBTQ parents a positive or negative influence? Please explain your answer. The gender differences observed in offspring of LGBTQ parents can be viewed as both positive and negative, depending on the perspective. On the positive side, these differences may challenge traditional gender norms and roles, leading to more open-minded and accepting attitudes towards diverse gender expressions. For example, daughters of lesbian couples aspiring to pursue occupations more traditionally filled by men could indicate a broader understanding of gender roles and a willingness to break societal stereotypes. However, these differences could also be seen as negative by some, particularly those who adhere strictly to traditional gender norms. For instance, boys raised by lesbian mothers being less assertive than traditionally raised males might be viewed as a deviation from expected male behavior. This could potentially lead to concerns about how these boys will adapt to societal expectations of masculinity as they grow older. In conclusion, while the gender differences in offspring of LGBTQ parents may challenge traditional notions of gender roles, they can also be perceived as negative by those who value conformity to traditional gender norms. 3. If you know any children of LGBTQ people, what is your view of their family compared to families with heterosexual parents? The families with LGBTQ parents are comparable to families with heterosexual parents in terms of their ability to raise children effectively. Studies show that children of LGBTQ parents do not differ significantly from children of heterosexual parents in terms of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender role behavior. These children are as happy as their peers from heterosexual families, and their parents' quality of life is equal to or better than matched heterosexual parents. The research suggests that the key issue regarding the comparison between families with LGBTQ parents and heterosexual parents is not the sexual orientation of the parents, but rather the quality of the parenting and the family environment. Overall, there is no evidence to suggest that children of LGBTQ parents are at a disadvantage compared to children of heterosexual parents. Polling Questions Polling 10.1: The Gap between Attraction and Action Research reveals that some individuals experience a gap between their sexual attractions and their expressed sexual behavior. For example, a man may be attracted to other men, but date or have sex only with females. How many of you have been sexually attracted to members of the same sex? Out of those of you who answered yes, how many of you acted on that attraction? It's important to note that sexual attraction and behavior can be complex and may not always align. Some individuals may experience attractions that they do not act upon for various reasons, including societal expectations, personal beliefs, or relationship dynamics. The gap between attraction and action is a common phenomenon and highlights the diversity of human sexuality. Polling 10.2: Etiology of Orientation The text describes three theoretical camps: nature, nurture and interaction as possible sources of sexual orientation. Although there is no scientific consensus on which of these four explanations is accurate or that they are mutually exclusive. Today researchers in psychology and biology lean toward the genetic and prenatal approaches. These approaches imply that orientation is, to a certain extent, “hard wired” in human development, especially during the prenatal stage. How many of you believe that orientation is set at birth? How many of you believe that it is more nurture than nature? There is ongoing debate and research in the field of psychology and biology regarding the etiology of sexual orientation. While some researchers lean toward genetic and prenatal factors as influential in sexual orientation development, others argue that environmental and social factors play a significant role. Some individuals may believe that sexual orientation is set at birth or influenced by genetic and prenatal factors, while others may believe that it is more influenced by nurture, such as upbringing and environmental factors. It's important to note that the development of sexual orientation is likely influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and social factors. Activities Activity 10.1: Assessing the Change or Constancy of Your Sexual Orientation Consider the following questions about your sexual orientation. Use the three time dimensions that Klein described in his research to answer the questions to help you determine if your sexual orientation has changed or has remained steady over time. This means that you will have three responses for each of the following seven questions. Past: Your life up to 12 months ago. Present: The most recent 12 months. Ideal: Your prediction for the future. 1. Sexual Attraction: Who turns you on? Who do you find attractive as a real or potential partner? MALE _____ FEMALE _____ ANDROGYNOUS _____ 2. Sexual Behavior: Who are your sexual contacts or partners? MALE _____ FEMALE _____ ANDROGYNOUS _____ 3. Sexual Fantasies: Whom do you enjoy fantasizing about in erotic daydreams? MALE _____ FEMALE _____ ANDROGYNOUS _____ 4. Emotional Preference: With whom do you prefer to establish strong emotional bonds? MALE _____ FEMALE _____ ANDROGYNOUS _____ 5. Social Preference: Which sex do you prefer to spend your leisure time with, and with which sex do you feel most comfortable? MALE _____ FEMALE _____ ANDROGYNOUS _____ 6. Hetero/Gay Lifestyle: What is the sexual orientation of the people with whom you socialize? GAY _____ STRAIGHT _____ BI _____ TRANS _____ QUEER _____ OTHER _____ 7. Self-identification: How do you think of yourself? GAY _____ STRAIGHT _____ BI _____ TRANS _____ QUEER _____ OTHER _____ Did you find change or continuity over time in your own sexual orientation? Remember, there are no right or wrong answers, only what is true for your own individual sexuality. Source: Based on Klein, 1978. Activity 10.2: Is Homosexuality Biologically Determined? Is being gay biologically based? This is a question researchers are grappling with. Unfortunately, as the text indicates, there are camps on both sides of the issue that have very opposing views. Have students read, “Never Ask a Gay Man for Directions” (Bering, 2009): http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=never-ask-a-gay-man-for-directions and answer the following questions in 1-2 paragraph answers. 1. Describe the relationship between being gay and spatial cognition. 2. The research here would argue what in relation to homosexuality? 3. How are gay men different from straight men in regards to spatial skills? What about bisexuals? 4. Does this research argue that gay men are like women? 5. Based on this and the information described in your text, what would you argue is the etiology of homosexual behavior? 1. The relationship between being gay and spatial cognition: • Some research suggests that there may be differences in spatial cognition between gay and straight individuals. Spatial cognition refers to the ability to perceive, analyze, and understand spatial relationships in the environment. This research implies that there could be a connection between sexual orientation and certain cognitive abilities. 2. The research would argue what in relation to homosexuality: • The research may argue that there are differences in spatial skills between gay and straight individuals, potentially indicating a biological basis for sexual orientation. However, it's important to note that this is just one aspect of the complex nature of sexual orientation. 3. Differences in spatial skills between gay and straight men, and bisexuals: • Some research suggests that gay men may have spatial skills that are more similar to those of women than to straight men. This could suggest that there are differences in brain structure or function related to sexual orientation. The relationship between bisexual individuals and spatial skills may vary among individuals and requires further study. 4. Does this research argue that gay men are like women: • Some interpretations of the research may suggest that there are similarities between gay men and women in terms of certain cognitive abilities, including spatial skills. However, it's important to avoid overgeneralizations and to consider the diversity of experiences within both the gay and female populations. 5. Etiology of homosexual behavior: • The etiology of homosexual behavior is a complex issue influenced by a variety of factors. While some research suggests that there may be biological factors, such as differences in brain structure or function, that contribute to sexual orientation, other factors, such as social and environmental influences, also play a role. It's likely that sexual orientation is influenced by a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and social factors. Activity 10.3: Video Clips on Human Sexuality Contact you MHHE book representative for access to McGraw Hill Connect to access the online video library for this class. Once you have an access code you can add the class at: http://connect.customer.mcgraw-hill.com/products/connect-human-sexuality-for-herdt-human-sexuality-an-appreciative-view-1e/. Activity10.4: Movie: Milk A stunning performance by Sean Penn of gay activist Harvey Milk in the film Milk. This movie is discussed in the text and can be shown in class or assigned as an out of class assignment and used as a discussion board topic. The movie "Milk" is a biographical film that follows the life of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California. Directed by Gus Van Sant and starring Sean Penn as Harvey Milk, the film explores Milk's political career and his activism for gay rights. The movie is a powerful depiction of Milk's life and the struggles he faced as a gay man in politics. It provides insight into the LGBTQ rights movement in the 1970s and the challenges faced by the community during that time. "Milk" is a valuable resource for discussing topics related to sexual orientation, LGBTQ rights, activism, and the history of the gay rights movement. Assigning "Milk" as an out-of-class assignment and using it as a discussion board topic can encourage students to engage with the themes and issues raised in the film. It can also spark meaningful discussions about the progress made in LGBTQ rights and the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ community. Activity 10.5: Understanding Internalized Homophobia In some communities, homophobic attitudes may be part of regular sexual socialization, although these attitudes may be unintentionally or intentionally taught (Herek, 2004). While homophobia may be common in some communities today, internalized homophobia, which is a feeling that a person may absorb from societal hostility toward LGBTQ people, can motivate this behavior. If people grow up in a community that actively teaches homophobic prejudice, it would not be surprising if they internalized such hostile feelings or attitudes about homosexuality. For example, they may have learned that all homosexuals engage in childhood sexual abuse or carry the HIV/AIDS virus. It is really no different than learning negative stereotypes about someone’s skin color or race. Consider the following questions in terms of how you feel about homosexuality: 1. Do you believe gay men and lesbian women can influence others to become homosexual? 2. Do you think someone could influence you to change your sexual preference? 3. If you are a parent (straight or gay), how do you feel about having a gay child? (Consider this question even if you are not yet a parent but think that you might be one in the future.) 4. How do you think you would feel if you discovered that one of your parents, parent figures, or siblings were gay or lesbian? 5. Are there any jobs, positions, or professions that you think lesbian women or gay men should be barred from holding? If yes, which ones and why? 6. If someone you care about says to you, “I think I’m gay,” would you suggest that person try to hide or resist the feeling or perhaps see a therapist? 7. Would you ever consider going to a gay or lesbian bar, social club, party, or march? If no, why? 8. Would you wear a button that says, “How dare you assume I’m heterosexual”? 9. Can you think of three positive aspects of being gay? Three negative things? 10. Have you ever laughed at a joke about being gay or lesbian or queer? Reflecting on these questions and your answers can be helpful for your own experience and to society as a whole. Consider reading further about internalized homophobia in books and papers cited in this chapter. Consider going online to check organizations such as Advocates for Youth (advocatesforyouth.org) and Gay Straight Alliances (GSAs) (glsen.org). GSAs may be on high school or college campuses and may help young people to integrate their sexual orientation and help family and friends learn about minority sexual orientations (Herdt, Russell, Sweat, & Marzullo, 2006). Or consider visiting a LGBTQ support group on your campus or in your city. These organizations can help challenge antigay attitudes and support the rights of LGBTQ people. Source: Adapted from Moses & Hawkins, 1986. 1. No, sexual orientation is not something that can be influenced or changed by others. It is a deeply ingrained aspect of a person's identity. 2. No, my sexual orientation is a core part of who I am, and it is not something that can be changed or influenced by external factors. 3. As a parent, I would love and accept my child unconditionally, regardless of their sexual orientation. It is important to me that my child feels supported and valued for who they are. 4. I would feel supportive and accepting of their sexual orientation. It would not change my love or respect for them as a family member. 5. No, I believe that everyone should have equal opportunities in all professions regardless of their sexual orientation. 6. I would encourage them to embrace their feelings and be true to themselves. If they are struggling, I would suggest seeking support from a therapist who is affirming of LGBTQ identities. 7. Yes, I would consider attending to show support for the LGBTQ community and to celebrate diversity. 8. Yes, I would wear it to challenge assumptions about sexual orientation and promote awareness of LGBTQ identities. 9. • Positive aspects: a sense of community and belonging, the opportunity to challenge societal norms and stereotypes, the ability to form deep and meaningful relationships. • Negative aspects: facing discrimination and prejudice, dealing with societal expectations and stereotypes, potential challenges in coming out to family and friends. 10. No, I believe that jokes about sexual orientation can be hurtful and contribute to stigma and discrimination. Internet Resources http://lgbthealth.webolutionary.com/ The LGBT health homepage. http://www.genderpsychology.org http://community.pflag.org/Page.aspx?pid=194&srcid=-2 The PFLAG homepage. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx An overview of the APA’s stance on orientation, coming out and parenting. http://www.aglp.org/gap/1_history/ The APA LGBT Mental Health Syllabus. Has pretests and post tests and describes the history of the APA’s perspective of homosexuality. http://www.mhhe.com/socscience/sex/common/ibank/set-1.htm McGraw Hill Image Gallery for Human Sexuality http://www.mhhe.com/socscience/psychology/psychonline/general.html McGraw Hill Higher Education General Resources for Students and Faculty. http://www.apa.org/ The APA website. http://www.apa.org/topics/sexuality/index.aspx APA site for research on sexuality. The Ten-Minute Test Name: __________ Answer the questions below utilizing the following terms: Interactive Compulsory Bisexuality Prejudice Queer Being on the down low Large Homophobia Sexual identity Sexual orientation 1. _____ is a person’s sexual or romantic attractions in people of the same or opposite sex, or toward both sexes. 2. Four main sources explain the cause of sexual orientation: genetic, prenatal, postnatal, and _____. 3. _____ heterosexuality is the condition of being socially compelled to have sexual relationships with the other gender, are married and have children, regardless of sexual orientation. 4. _____ was formulated in the late 19th century as a form of sexual individuality to support social and political rights for people. 5. An attraction to both genders is called _____. 6. When African American married men have secretive sex with other men, they are considered to be _____. 7. Individuals who question their sexual position in society refer to themselves as _____. 8. _____ is the fear and hatred of homosexuals. 9. Sexual _____ is the form of disapproval related to sexual orientation. 10. Sexual orientation expression is most supported in _____ cities in the United States. Answers to the Ten-Minute Test 1. Sexual orientation 2. Interactive 3. Compulsory 4. Sexual identity 5. Bisexuality 6. Being on the down low 7. Queer 8. Homophobia 9. Prejudice 10. Large Solution Manual for Human Sexuality: Self, Society, and Culture Gilbert Herdt, Nicole Polen-Petit 9780073532165, 9780077817527
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