Page 218 - Microaggressions in Everyday Live Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation

192 sexual - orientation microaggressions and heterosexism

1. Oversexualization — When reference is made to gays, lesbians, or

“ homosexuals, ” many people immediately associate “ sex ” and “ sexual activ-
ity ” with this group. LGBTs are thought of as mere sexual beings rather than
as complex people whose lives involve family, friends, careers, nonsexual
relationships, hopes, and aspirations. These forms of microaggressions come
out in any number of ways. From male heterosexual students: “ Who wants
to take a shower in the school gymnasium in front of a gay classmate? ”
“ They should separate homosexuals in the men ’ s locker room. ” From hetero-
sexual neighbors: “ I avoid physical contact with the lesbian couple next door in

case they get the wrong idea. ” “ Why do they have to flaunt their sexuality

in public (holding hands)? ” Perhaps one of the greatest concerns by some
heterosexuals, especially parents, is a strong belief that lesbians and gays are
sexually attracted to children, and are child molesters (Barrett & Logan, 2002).
They avoid gays and make sure that their children are not exposed to them for
fear that they will be molested sexually and/or be infl uenced and converted
to a gay lifestyle.
The impact of viewing LGBTs in terms of their sexual lives is captured in
the reactions described below:

A lesbian programmer who is an open member of a gay and lesbian caucus
group at work said, “ Why am I defined only by my sexual orientation? All every-

one sees is the sex thing. ” A gay accounts manager said, “ There are no beds in

the office. There are desks, chairs, and computers. But I feel that some people

seem to define me solely by my sexual orientation and not by my professional
capabilities. ” (Blank & Slipp, 1994, p. 144)
The oversexualization microaggression also seems to embolden some
straights to steer conversations to sexual themes.
I don ’ t mind if someone expresses a genuine interest in my life, but what I
strongly object to are prurient questions about my sexual practices or questions
that try to educate me out of my “ life - style. ” A few have actually said, “ What do
lesbians actually do together? ” or “ Do you think you ’ d feel differently toward
men if you met a really nice, sensitive guy? ” or “ Don ’ t you think you ’ re upset-
ting your parents? ” (Blank & Slipp, 1994, p. 144)

2. Homophobia — Homophobia is a term that has incorrectly been used to
encompass the larger social meaning of prejudice and discrimination toward
LGBTs. The correct usage and reference is more narrow, however, in that it
was originally defined as fear (phobia) of homosexuals, often associated

with the fear of being or becoming gay (Herek, 2004; Weinberg, 1972).

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