SWRK 2040 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Civil Marriage Act, American Psychological Association, Same-Sex Marriage In The Netherlands
16 Feb 2018
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Document Summary
Although the term homosexual did not exist until 1869, lesbians, gays, and bisexuals have existed across time and culture. However, heterosexism has been viewed as superior and normal, stigmatizing homosexual and bisexual behaviour. This has been reinforced through institutional prejudice and discrimination. Homosexuality no longer regarded by the american psychological association as a mental illness (since 1973) Still social work practices based on biases, lack of knowledge and inadequate services are still prevalent. In progressive/structural social work practice, the commitment to social and economic justice requires a dismantling of all forms of oppression, including homophobia. Homophobia makes many individuals fearful that they will lose friends, family, employment or housing if they are honest about their sexual orientation. Other consequences of homophobia can lead to loss of children, abuse, and, suicide; the risk of which is high for gay, lesbian or bisexual youth.
