I often work with teenagers and adults who are questioning their sexuality or coming to terms with their sexual orientation. Recently, I had a student writing an article for her high school newspaper contact me with questions about homophobia and the impact on high school students. I thought I would share my responses on our website.
Is sexuality a choice?
Many people experience little or no sense of choice as to whether they are gay, bisexual, or heterosexual. At this point, there is not a consensus among researchers and professionals about the exact reasons why a person develops a particular sexual orientation, but most believe that a person’s sexuality is determined by a complex interaction of environmental and biological factors.
Why are people homophobic?
Homophobia can be the result of a variety of influences from perceiving that sexuality is a personal choice to religious and cultural beliefs about appropriate sexuality or sexual behavior. Also, people tend to fear what they don’t understand.
How does homophobia in a high school setting affect students?
Coping with verbal and physical threats and rumors caused by homophobia can lead a student to feel anxious, depressed, irritable, scared, and isolated. These feelings and moods can interfere with family and social relationships and school performance. Bullying is not only stressful for the student that is on the receiving end, it also causes strain on many of the students participating in the bullying and breaks down the sense of community in a school environment.
Why do you think students bully homosexual students?
For many teenagers, a large part of high school is figuring out how to be “yourself” while also trying to fit in. This is hard for everyone. Bullying students that are different or stand out in some way can sometimes happen when one leader starts making comments or threats and others go along to “fit in” or others are quiet so they won’t become a target, too.
What steps do you think we need to take to fix this problem?
Schools can promote a culture of respect and acceptance of diversity in their classrooms and hallways. Gay, lesbian, and bisexual students should know that they have the right to experience a safe educational environment, and they can go to the school administrators and counselors if an issue arises. It is also important for students to speak up if they experience or witness bullying occurring. Lastly, getting organized and providing education about sexuality through a student organization or having an event, such as National Coming Out Day, can have a positive impact.
If you are struggling to cope with homophobia or confusion or stress related to your sexuality, I would encourage you to talk with someone you trust about your concerns, such as a parent, teacher, coach, counselor, or friend.
Kathryn H. Leugers, Psy.D.
Consulting Psychologist
