Study: Physiological Impacts of Homophobia

[HuckleB]

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110202114957.htm

"...

The study examined the link between living in a homophobic environment and 'internalized homophobia,' e.g., feeling negatively about oneself because of one's sexual identity as LGB.

Individuals who experienced more LGB-related stress -- arguments about sexual identity, bullying or discrimination -- had higher internalized homophobia and showed increased production of the stress hormone cortisol compared to peers in more positive environments.

What's more, LGB youth who showed more internalized homophobia and abnormal cortisol activity also experienced increased symptoms of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. "This study is among the first to clearly link the experience of homophobia with abnormal cortisol activity," says Benibgui.

Benibgui says abnormal cortisol activity in LGB youth, combined with the vicious cycle of stress, could be further influenced by a complex set of biological, psychological and social factors. "This study shows a clear relation between abnormal cortisol levels and environmental stressors related to homophobia," he says.

..."


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Very interesting, and extremely sad. Why do so many people forsake the Golden Rule when the destruction caused by doing so is so great?

[xchrom]

1. so many heard 'do it to others before they do it to you'. nt

[HuckleB]

2. All too true. -eom-

[HuckleB]

3. kick