Gay is a term that is used to describe people who are homosexual. It is also used to describe the characteristics of a person who is gay. The term originally meant carefree, bright and cheerful. However, the term now mainly refers to those who are homosexual.
Lesbian
Lesbian, gay, bi, and transgender (LGBT) individuals share with the general population a wide range of health risks. In addition, they face a large number of social stigmas. Despite this, people have been continuing to gather in June for Pride marches and demonstrate for equal rights.
According to a recent survey, gay men and lesbian women are less accepted by society than other LGBT groups. But it also appears that gay men are more likely to reach coming out milestones than lesbians.
Likewise, the survey suggests that the more educated members of the LGBT community may have access to more resources and live in better neighborhoods. A more educated LGBT person may also be more likely to have access to health care and grocery stores with fresh produce.
Bisexual
Bisexual is a term used to describe a person who experiences attraction to different genders. The word bisexual comes from the Latin phrase “bisex” which means “attracted to.” However, in practice, bisexual can refer to a variety of sexual orientations.
Gay and lesbian people are often the subject of movies and television shows, as well as in courts and other public venues. In some cases, the use of this term has been restricted. It is considered derogatory. For example, the Washington Post has restricted the use of the term.
The use of this term is not necessarily offensive, but it may be insensitive. This may reflect a lack of confidence in the legitimacy of a sexual orientation. Nonetheless, many people are using this term to explore their sexual identities.
Transgender
Gay and transgender people are a social and cultural phenomenon. They are at the center of controversy, civil rights battles, and movies. In 2017, the number of LGBTQ teens attempting suicide outnumbered that of their heterosexual peers.
A gender-recognition certificate is a legal process that enables people to officially change their gender. It requires a medical diagnosis and commitment from the applicant. The sex-affirmation process may involve hormone replacement therapy, such as testosterone or estrogen.
There is a lot of controversy over the term “transsexual” which describes a person whose gender identity consistently differs from the assigned sex. Some say that the term conflates sex reassignment surgery with the nature of trans identity. Others say that they do not identify with the term.
Another controversial issue is reparative therapy, a process used by some social workers to convince transgender children to change their identities. Many major health organizations have condemned this practice.
Heterosexism
Heterosexism is an umbrella term for prejudice against people based on their sexuality. It is a complex issue that manifests in many forms. Whether it is discrimination at work, harassment at school, or a lack of support in one’s community, heterosexism can be a source of great distress.
In this study, researchers examined a variety of strategies that youth used to cope with heterosexism. Their findings can help service providers provide coping support to sexual minority youth.
The study was part of a larger qualitative research project that explored the impact of stigma on youth. Researchers found that the majority of youth encountered heterosexist attitudes in their schools, homes, and communities. Some respondents felt shame or anger. A minority expressed regret.
Respondents were asked to identify the most effective coping strategies. Among these, a number of respondents mentioned seeking gay-affirmative social support. They also cited creative expression as a strategy for venting feelings.
Religious groups emphasize reparative therapy to “cure” homosexuality
Religious groups emphasize reparative therapy as a way to “cure” homosexuality. Some groups do so explicitly, while others are more subtle. The NASW (National Association of Social Workers) explicitly condemns reparative therapy, calling it “unproven and harmful.”
The relationship between religion and homosexuality is controversial. Several religions have historically perceived homosexuality as sinful and a moral evil. Others have tolerated it, as in ancient Greece and Rome. In more recent times, some religious leaders have advocated full acceptance of homosexual relationships. However, many conservative denominations base their position on texts from the Old Testament and on the Bible’s teachings about human sexual relations.
In addition, religious leaders in some cultures have been known to actively participate in “reparative therapy” programs. These programs, which essentially involve counseling, behaviour modification, and prayer, are designed to reduce an individual’s homosexuality, and therefore their social stigma.