As lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights charity Stonewall state, homophobia is; ‘The irrational hatred, intolerance and fear of lesbian, gay and bisexual people.’
Homophobia is often the term used for intolerance toward bisexual people, but the bisexual community also struggle with biphobia. This is when their sexuality is seen as invalid. Biphobia comes from a belief that you are either straight or gay, and that sexuality is not a spectrum.
How are people homophobic?
People can be homophobic in many different ways. Homophobia takes the form of insults, discrimination and even includes violence. Such abuse is motivated purely on the fact someone is of a different sexual orientation.
This bullying is born out of ignorance, fear and, in many cases, immaturity. Homophobia isn’t always obvious either. If you are ignored or not treated with the same respect as a heterosexual person this is still homophobia.
Everyday Homophobia
Many phrases and words may appear as harmless but can also be homophobic. Phrases you might hear used on the playground such as ‘that’s so gay’ or ‘you’re so gay’ can be offensive to those identifying as gay and it’s easy to understand why if you’re using their identity as an insult.
More Information and Support
If you are the victim of homophobic bullying, in sport, at work or school help is available.
- Call Samaritans on 116 123.
- You can learn more about sexual identity on the ChildLine website. You can also phone them on 0800 1111.
LGBT Youth Scotland is Scotland’s national charity for LGBTQI+ young people aged 13-25. Find out more about the work they do here.