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College students' attitudes about lesbians: what difference does 16 years make?
1School of Social Administration, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B Moore Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
Journal of Homosexuality
|June 28, 2007
Summary
College students show increased acceptance of lesbians and gay men over time. Key factors influencing these positive attitude shifts include gender role attitudes, parental views, and educational media exposure.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Sociology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Attitudes toward sexual minorities have evolved significantly.
- Understanding the drivers of these attitude changes is crucial for promoting inclusivity.
- Previous research indicates a complex interplay of social, familial, and educational factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine trends in college students' attitudes toward lesbians and gay men.
- To compare attitudes and influencing factors between a 1985 and a 2001 student sample.
- To identify key predictors of attitude development toward sexual minorities.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of survey data from two distinct time points (1985 and 2001).
- Utilized a similar questionnaire administered to students in the same college residence hall.
- Statistical examination of demographic, attitudinal, and exposure variables.
Main Results:
- The 2001 sample reported significantly more accepting attitudes toward lesbians and greater contact compared to the 1985 sample.
- Parental attitudes and exposure to education/media about sexual minorities were consistent predictors of acceptance.
- Gender was a significant predictor in 1985 but not in 2001, suggesting evolving gender role influences.
Conclusions:
- Educational and media-based strategies that challenge gender stereotypes can enhance acceptance of sexual minorities.
- The findings highlight a positive trend in attitudes among college students over a 16-year period.
- Further research is recommended to track evolving attitudes toward all sexual minorities and the role of gender.
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