The reduction of heterosexism as a result of panel presentation.

Abstract

Introductory Psychology students were surveyed to assess levels of heterosexism before and after an educational presentation. A demographic questionnaire and the Attitudes Toward Lesbians and Gay Men scale were administered to the participants. Factors such as differences between genders, age and backgrounds were explored. Seventy-one participants completed both scales. Results indicated there were no significant overall changes in levels of heterosexism after the panel presentation. Levels of heterosexism were found to be greater in men than in women. Male and female participants demonstrated similar degrees of acceptance toward gay men and lesbians. Older participants indicated as consistent degrees of acceptance toward homosexuals as younger participants. There was no significant difference in findings from participants with urban backgrounds compared to participants residing in rural areas. These findings suggest that more than a single presentation is required in order to reduce levels of heterosexism or to increase acceptance of gay men and women. Participants from outside the social science discipline would also enable generalization of the results found in this study.