Many myths and misconceptions surround LGBTQ issues and perpetuate heterosexist, gender oppressive, and homophobic behaviors and beliefs. In order to clear up any confusion and help combat oppressive biases, below is a list of some of the more common myths surrounding the LGBTQ community.
Myth #1: All people are born heterosexual.False. This belief is defined as heterosexual assumption. The 1948 Kinsey Report challenged the belief that all human beings had a heterosexual orientation. This study was controversial for many reasons, especially because it discovered that only 10% of the population studied were exclusively heterosexual or homosexual. Most of the test subjects exhibited some form of bisexuality, or an attraction to both the same and opposite sexes (Koppelman, 2014). This study, along with many others continue to find that sexual orientation has biological origins and that not all people are "wired" to be heterosexual.
Myth #3: Homosexuals are only interested in sexual relationships. They do not have loving relationships with each other.False. This belief is usually based on the argument that loving, same-sex relationships are not "seen" like they are with heterosexual couples. This has more to do with cultural norms and beliefs than ability level. Throughout history, gay and lesbian couples have been denied the right to marry each other and have often been encouraged to hide their sexual tendencies and behaviors for fear of being met with violence and hostility (Koppelman, K. L., 2014). In many cultures, public displays of affection between heterosexuals are treated with indifference, while similar behavior between a same-sex couple is met with hostility and often violence. Sexual orientation does not affect ones desire for loving relationships, nor does it affect their ability to have one.
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Myth #2: Anyone who has ever engaged in homosexual behaviors is automatically homosexual.False. In order to be considered homosexual, a person must consistently and persistently demonstrate sexual attraction towards the opposite sex. While gay and lesbians will not be attracted to every member of the same sex they see, homosexuals consistently chose members of the same sex to have emotional and sexual relationships with (Koppelman, 2014).
Myth #4: You can tell just by looking at somebody that they are homosexual.False. Many people do not realize that gender expression and sexual orientation are not the same thing. If they see a boy playing with a doll, they think he will grow up to be gay. If they see a girl with short hair, she must be a lesbian. These beliefs have no factual basis. While some females with androgynous or traditionally masculine identify as lesbians, many still identify as straight. There are many gay men that identify with traditionally masculine expressions as well as lesbian women who identify with traditionally feminine expressions. Look at the wedding picture below from People Magazine of Ellen Degeneres and Portia di Rossi. Both women are lesbians despite dressing differently. Clothes and haircuts are not determining factors of sexuality!
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This list is by no means all inclusive. If you are interested in learning more, check out this book --"You Can Tell Just by Looking": And 20 Other Myths about LBGT Life and People — for a more extensive list of misconceptions about the LGBTQ community.
Myth #5: People become homosexual based on bad childhood experiences or abuse.False. The American Psychiatric Association has stated there is no evidence that trauma or lack of parental care leads to homosexuality. Children who are sexually abused as children grow up to be both heterosexual and homosexual, as well as anywhere in between, and abuse has no correlation to sexual orientation (Koppelman, 2014).
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