A Factor-Analytic Conceptualization of Attitudes Toward Male and Female Homosexuals

Abstract

A wide spectrum of opinions and beliefs concerning homosexuals was sampled, compiled into a questionnaire format, and administered to a large group of heterosexual subjects. Factor analysis yielded six independent sets of attitudes that describe the variance in heterosexual reactions to homosexuals. The relationship of sex differences and familiarity with homosexuals to variations in response style is discussed.

Anti-Homosexual Prejudice… as Opposed to What?

“…Attitude researchers predicted affective responses within the parlance of ego defense. Anti-homosexual prejudice was thought to derive from personal anxiety (Millham, San Miguel, & Kellogg, 1976), sex guilt (Dunbar, Brown, & Amoroso, 1973), and fear and denial of personal homosexual tendencies (Mosher & O'Grady, 1979).…”

“…Herek (1984) questioned the necessity of multifactorial scales, and ultimately concluded that only a single factor was required to conceptualize heterosexism. Herek (1984) reported four studies which drew on both earlier attitude measures (Levitt & Klassen, 1974;MacDonald et al, 1973;Millham et al, 1976;Smith, 1971) and some original items. Notably, Herek excluded items from Mosher and O'Grady (1979) arguing that the "locker room" language of these behavioral items would offend participants instead of tapping into feelings of personal threat.…”

Heterosexuals' attitudes toward lesbians and gay men: Correlates and gender differences

“…One of the most consistent findings is that heterosexual males manifest more anti-gay hostility on average than do heterosexual females (Brown & Amoroso, 1975;Glassner & Owen, 1976;Gurwitz & Marcus, 1978;Hansen, 1982;Kite, 1984;Laner & Laner, 1979;Millham, et al, 1976;Minnigerode, 1976;Steffensmeier & Steffensmeier, 1974;Storms, 1978;Weis & Dain, 1979). Although this sex dif- ference in attitudes has been observed often, few attempts have been made to explain it (Kite, 1984).…”

Homophobia: Conceptual, definitional, and value issues

“…Prior to the development of the IHP, Millham, San Miguel, and Kellogg (1976) conducted what appears to be the most methodologically sound investigation of attitudes toward homosexuality. These researchers developed a questionnaire Consisting of 38 items designed to survey a broad range of attitudes and beliefs toward homosexuality.…”