Homophobia
The term homophobia is defined as an "unreasoning fear of or antipathy toward homosexuals and homosexuality." [1]
Homophobia as an "Irrational Fear"
The suffix "phobia" suggests an irrational fear, but that is not how the term is used.[2] The term is used by gay rights groups to suggest that all opposition to homosexuality is irrational and hateful.[3]
- There is no personal, internal, institutional, or cultural homophobia. The terms do not exist in the recognized scientific literature...There is only one homophobia, which has been properly defined....There is no doubt that homophobia exists. There is also no doubt that there are rationalized and irrational anti-homosexual attitudes. However, it would be very valuable for society in general, and therapists in particular, to have a clear picture of homophobia separated from all the other topics that have been lumped under that rubric. " [4]
William O'Donohue and Christine E. Caselles [5] have concluded based upon research within the therapeutic community a clear understanding of the disorder has not been adequately evaluated and it is not clear whether the disorder can can be accurately characterized. They have concluded,
- "the construct of homophobia, as it is usually used, makes an illegitimately pejorative evaluation of certain open and debatable value positions, much like the former disease construct of homosexuality."
Homophobia as Discrimination
The characterization of "homophobia" is less a characterization of a mental ill, or an irrational fear, as these commentators allege. Rather, the use of the term "homophobia" is meant to convey disgust at any discrimination or status-based animus at all. "Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation" is an appropriate synonym in this perspective.[6]
References
- â Dictionary.com: Homophobia
- â Psychologists do not recognize it as a phobia in any generally recognized publication like the DSM IV.
- â Eg, this site [1] first defines homophobia as a dread or fear, but says that it includes those who write their Congressmen to oppose same-sex marriage.
- â HOMOPHOBIA: A Scientific Non-Political Definition, Dr. Sander J. Breiner, National Association for Research and Therapy on Homosexuality, 2003.
- â William O'Donohue and Christine E. Caselles, Homophobia: Conceptual, definitional, and value issues, Journal Journal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment, Volume 15, Number 3, Springer Netherlands, September, 1993. ISSN 0882-2689
- â see Lawrence v. Texas or Romer v. Evans for judicial authority on all discriminatory animus against homosexuals being wrong, or the Human Rights Campaign.