Attitude Towards Homosexuality : A Survey Based Study

By : Pooja V. Anand

Page No: 157-166

Abstract
India is a country which embraces diversity in many forms. Whereas diversity has many positive consequences, there are also many negative consequences of diversity such as prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination. Homosexuals in most societies face various forms of prejudice and discrimination. The present study aimed at studying the attitude of people towards homosexuality in Delhi-NCR, India. The sample consisted of 336 participants living in Delhi-NCR, India. Out of these 168 were males and 168 were females. 194 were in the age range of 18-25 and 142 were in the age range of 45-60. Purposive sampling was done. The Homosexuality Attitude Scale developed by Kite and Deaux (1986) and a questionnaire with open-ended questions constructed by the researcher were used. The study revealed a slightly positive attitude towards homosexuality. Significant gender differences were not found though women showed a slightly more positive attitude towards homosexuality. Younger people showed significantly more positive attitude towards homosexuality as compared to older adults. The themes obtained by thematic analysis reflect a diversity of opinions regarding homosexuality.

Author :
Pooja V. Anand : Assistant Professor — Department of Psychology, Daulat Ram College, University of Delhi, Maurice Nagar, Delhi-110007