answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

The word "homophobia" gets tossed around a lot. Technically, a "phobia" is an unreasoning fear of something. People may have an irrational fear of water, for example, or heights, that makes them panicky even when there's no real danger. So "homophobia" is an unreasonable, irrational fear of homosexuality, and/or of people perceived to be homosexuals.

But the word is also used to refer to people whose fear is not based on a psychological problem, but on ignorance or prejudice -- refusal to learn the facts. Technically, that's misusing the word, but what can you do?

Heterosexism is now used to mean people who hate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Queer individuals, as it does not have the false definition of fear, when the person may not actually fear gay people, just hate them.

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

AnswerBot

1mo ago

Homophobia can stem from a variety of factors such as ignorance, fear of the unknown, religious beliefs, social conditioning, or personal insecurities. It often results from a lack of understanding or empathy towards individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and can be perpetuated by societal norms and prejudices.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What causes homophobia?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

When was Homophobia - song - created?

"Homophobia" is a song by Chumbawamba, released as part of their album "WYSIWYG" in 2000.


Where is homophobia in Europe?

Sadly Homophobia exists in all countries on the planet.


When was Community Action Against Homophobia created?

Community Action Against Homophobia was created in 1991.


What are the ratings and certificates for The Homophobia Project - 2010?

The Homophobia Project - 2010 is rated/received certificates of: UK:12


What is the difference between xenophobia and homophobia?

Xenophobia is the hatred or fear of foreigners or strangers. Homophobia is the hatred or fear of lesbians or gays.


What is the benefit of perpetuating homophobia?

Nothing.


Is there homophobia in Israel?

While Israel has made progress in LGBTQ+ rights and protections, there are still instances of homophobia present in society. LGBTQ+ individuals may face discrimination or violence in certain communities or by certain individuals, but there are also many organizations and activists working to combat homophobia and promote equality and acceptance.


Do gays and lesbians support same-sex marriage?

Most generally do. However, some suffer from internalized homophobia which causes them to devalue their own relationships.


What has the author Mark McCormack written?

Mark McCormack has written: 'The declining significance of homophobia' -- subject(s): Homophobia in high schools, Teenage boys, High school students, Gay teenagers, Case studies, Attitudes, Masculinity, Homophobia


What has the author Luca Trappolin written?

Luca Trappolin has written: 'Confronting homophobia in Europe' -- subject(s): Law and legislation, Homophobia, Prevention


How many pages does AARGH - Artists Against Rampant Government Homophobia - have?

AARGH - Artists Against Rampant Government Homophobia - has 76 pages.


How does homophobia affect people lives?

A tiny fraction of adults are homophobic - irrationally afraid of homosexuals. Their homophobia has little effect on homosexuals or on themselves.