by J. James

Created on: July 15, 2010

Historically speaking, the negative attitude towards homosexuality was viewed as “unnatural”.  The quote I read in Human Sexuality in a World of Diversity, attests to the opinion of generations past; “At worst, male-male and female-female sexual behavior had been deemed a crime against God or nature.” (Rathus, Nevid, & Fichner-Rathus 2005)

Regardless of the theories that range from prenatal exposure (or lack of) hormones, to the concept of homosexuality being a matter of choice; the stigma associated with this alternative lifestyle and sexual preference has been viewed as immoral, evil, and a form of mental illness. Until recently one would keep their sexual orientation about themselves from anyone who was not of the same orientation; or anyone who would not have the acceptance needed to continue their current relationship, and as a result experience rejection.

It is a known fact that in some cultures the male-male sexual behavior between older and younger males has been practiced, and accepted, as a rite of passage from child to manhood.  In most of these societies the adult male is expected to continue their lives in a heterosexual manner. This has no bearing on the sexual orientation of homosexuals being attracted sexually and romantically to members of the same sex. “Sexual orientation is not necessarily expressed in sexual behavior.  Many people come to perceive themselves as gay or heterosexual long before they ever engage in sex with members of their own sex.” (Rathus et al., 2005)

Homosexuals do not perceive that they have been born in the wrong body; their “gender identity is consistent with their anatomic sex”. (Rathus et al., 2005)  Some experience denial and shame due to society’s condemnation of homosexuality, and they may enter into heterosexual relationships, having encounters with same sex partners in secret. This type of behavior can lead to depression, or even suicidal tendencies, because the denial of being true to one’s own sexual orientation; and the betrayal of those who they have hidden the truth concerning their sexual preferences. Accepting the truth about a person’s homosexuality can be difficult because of the historical social taboo in Western culture.

With the trend of people beginning to believe that homosexuality is a condition one is born with, the acceptance of those who have “come out” with their sexual orientation to family

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