Question

What are some factors that contribute to nonheterosexual individuals experiencing prejudice and discrimination—both at the interpersonal and institutional levels of social life? Explain

Answer 1

The belief that heterosexuality is superior to non heterosexuality resulted in prejudice and discrimination against non hetrosexuals such as gays, lesbians and bisexuals.The major factors that contribute to the prejudice and discrimination against non hetrosexual individuals are

Negative attitude -The belief that non heterosexuality is inborn lead to a favourable attitude towards these people,while those who believe that these kind of sexual orientation is a matter of choice wiil exibit negative attitude and show rejection towards them.

Conservatism- The people who are more inclined to traditional values consider non hetrosexuals efforts to achieve certain rights as a serious threat to the valued traditions ,institutions and freedoms.

Traditional gender role belief- from the begining itself society has given certain roles to each gender. people who believe that the acceptace of non hetrosexuals will lead to the deterioration of these belief system will discriminate non hetrosexuals.

Impact of prejudice and discrimination

Becoming a victim of discrimination is psychologically and emotionally painfull. People who experience high discrimination at workplace tend to show less job satisfaction and this will lead to absenteesm and frequent contemplation of quitting the job. Frequent rejection can also lead to aggressive behavior. Oppression, that is using power as a tool to create inequality and limiting access to the resources effects the physical and emotional wellbeing. Due to social stigma,there is an increased risk for mental health problems ,if an individual feels that their social environment is physically and emotionally threatening. In institutions like schools and colleges continued rejection and oppression can often lead to deliquent behaviours. At an interpersonal level the prejudice and discrimination can lead to lack of confidence, decreased compitence, inferiority ,pessimissm and sense of helplessness .