The complex varieties of human sexual expression as currently recognized have been matched by equally complex stigmas, prejudice, discrimination, and bias. Beginning with definitions of homophobia, this entry presents a brief history of the concept, an exploration of several alternative terms, and a closing commentary on the causes and consequences of bias related to sexual desire.

Definition(s) of Homophobia

Homophobia is a widely used and accepted umbrella term broadly describing the social stigma associated with same-sex desire or discrimination against people identified as or presumed to be same-sex desiring. Definitions vary on what specifically constitutes homophobia, including but not limited to negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes about same-sex desire; discriminatory behavior such as verbal or physical assault or body language communicating discomfort with or fear of same-sex-desiring ...

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