Homophobia is the unfounded hatred, intolerance, and fear of lesbian, gay and bisexual people. These prejudicial feelings encourage the myths, stereotypes, discrimination and violence against people who are lesbian, gay or bisexual.
Lesbians, gay and bisexual people who are socialised in a homophobic society often internalise these negative stereotypes and can develop some degree of low self-esteem and self-hatred. This can be described as internalised homophobia.
Homophobia should not be tolerated. The Police are campaigning to tackle homophobia in a number of ways including a telephone helpline. Callers can speak anonymously and confidentially to Strathclyde Gay and Lesbian Switchboard staff, who are all trained in counselling skills. This line can be use for counselling, advice, or to report a homophobic crime. The help-line is staffed by trained members of the LGBT community and the number is 01786 469483.
Links
For more detailed information on homophobia contact the sites listed below.
- PHACE Scotland: www.phacescotland.org
- Strathclyde Gay and Lesbian Switchboard: www.sgls.co.uk
- Beyond Barriers: www.beyondbarriers.org.uk
- AVERT: www.avert.org
- Steve Retson Project: www.steveretsonproject.org.uk
- Healthy Gay Scotland: www.healthygayscotland.com
- LGBT Youth Scotland: www.lgbtyouth.org.uk
