Sexual orientation

Homophobia is a fear or dislike of LGB people. It is based on prejudice and it can result in LGB people being bullied at school or outside of school. LGB people can sometimes be discriminated against by people who are ignorant or are scared about sexual orientation.

Homophobia can take many forms, and it can sometimes make young people feel like there is something wrong with being LGB. An example of homophobia can include someone saying things like “It’s just a phase you’re going through,” or “How can you know what you are at your age?” Other examples of homophobia include people telling you that LGB orientation is a choice or an illness and that you can change your sexual orientation. Sometimes people might pretend to be homophobic because they are confused about their own sexuality.

Today, there are many laws to protect LGB people from homophobia. Your school should treat homophobic bullying seriously and support you to make things better. If you have a bad experience with homophobia, especially if you are physically attacked, you can report it to your local police or online through the Report It scheme.  

Heterosexism is linked to homophobia. It is when people think that relationships between boys and girls are more important than LGB relationships.

Some young people are raised by Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual (LGB) parents. Children raised by LGB parents sometimes have to respond to questions from friends who may be curious or ignorant about different kinds of families. Questions might include “Why do you have two mums?” or “Why do you have two dads?”

These questions can give you the chance to talk to your friends and educate them about what it’s like having LGB parents. Your friends might come to realise that your family really isn’t much different to theirs. You could always speak to your parents about what your friends are saying so that you can get their support.

Your friends might think that because your mum or dad is in a same-sex relationship, that you will also be LGB. This is an argument that is sometimes used by people who have homophobic views and it is not true. You could grow up to enjoy any sexual orientation.

Many LGB people around the world celebrate who they are through pride festivals, youth groups and political activism. These things happen to help stop homophobia, educate people about LGB issues, strengthen peer-support and community spirit and show the world that LGB people are everywhere.

The rainbow flag is a symbol of the pride movement. Its different colours represent diversity among LGB people and communities. It is because of the work of LGB people over the years that many homophobic laws have been abolished, which helps more people to live safe, happy and secure lives.

There might even be a LGB youth group in your area. These groups can be a great way to get support, meet other like-minded people and get involved in making your own community a better place. You can always join our message board community by visiting the ChildLine message board on Sexuality.