Homophobia / queerphobia

Queerphobia refers to discrimination, devaluation, or rejection of queer people. It can show itself in prejudice, exclusion, hostility, verbal abuse, psychological distress, or physical violence. It also affects people who are perceived as queer or who appear to deviate from social norms regarding sexuality and gender. The term “homophobia” is sometimes used more narrowly for hostility toward gay and lesbian people, but it is often too limited as a general term.

Internalized queerphobia refers to the adoption of queerphobic attitudes against one’s own identity. This can develop especially in a rejecting environment or before coming out and may lead to shame, insecurity, or self-rejection. Importantly, queerphobia is not merely an individual “opinion” but a form of social discrimination that can harm people and significantly affect their lives.