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The personality variable openness to experience as it relates to homophobia
Jenifer M Cullen1, Lester W Wright, Michael Alessandri
1Department of Psychology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo 49008, USA.
Journal of Homosexuality
|September 24, 2002
Summary
Personal contact and openness to experience significantly predict homophobia. Men and individuals without prior homosexual contact reported higher homophobia, highlighting key factors in attitudes towards homosexuality.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Homophobia is a complex social and psychological phenomenon.
- Understanding predictors of homophobic attitudes is crucial for promoting tolerance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate personality and demographic predictors of homophobia.
- To examine the relationship between contact with homosexual individuals, gender, personality traits, and homophobic attitudes.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 123 university students.
- Utilized the NEO Personality Inventory, Assessment of Attitudes Towards Lesbians and Gay Men, and Bem Sex Role Inventory.
- Collected demographic data including gender, gender role beliefs, and personal contact with homosexual individuals.
Main Results:
- Personal contact emerged as the strongest predictor of homophobia.
- Gender and Openness to Experience were also significant predictors.
- Individuals with no prior homosexual contact and men exhibited higher levels of homophobia.
- No significant association was found between gender roles and homophobia.
Conclusions:
- Personal contact and openness to experience are key factors influencing homophobic attitudes.
- Interventions aimed at increasing contact and fostering openness may reduce homophobia.
- Findings differentiate individuals with intolerant attitudes from those more accepting of diverse lifestyles.