How To Stop Being Homophobic And Accept The Difference
In Western countries there is a strong tradition based on discrimination against homosexual people This cultural characteristic (which also appears and has appeared in many other societies) has not only been reflected in laws that discriminate against this minority, but has also had an effect on the way of thinking of the majority.
In fact, even today it is not strange that homosexuals are criminalized and discriminated against, taking advantage of the most preposterous excuses: from the appeal to a supposed “human nature” that coincidentally coincides with the description of what one thinks it should be. love and family, even biblical quotes interpreted as one wishes, going through myths about homosexuality that are not supported by scientific consensus
In short, homophobia continues to be a reality even in the most affluent societies with greater access to university education. In fact, many people experience a kind of cognitive dissonance when they understand that there is no reason to discriminate against homosexuals and at the same time finding yourself falling into beliefs or thoughts based on homophobia
But all thought patterns can be modified, and this one too. These are some keys to stop being homophobic, based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral psychology.
1. Consider the usefulness of your mental schemes
A mental scheme is the set of ideas and beliefs that acts as a matrix to interpret reality. This is what makes, for example, some people relate the concept of “chemicals” to technology, pollution and processed foods, and others relate it to practically everything that exists (and is made up of atoms and molecules). .
In the case at hand, it is advisable to first consider whether the cognitive scheme that is being applied when thinking about the idea of ​​homosexuality is useful to understand this concept in the best possible way. This means questioning whether stereotypes who related to homosexuals are in themselves essential to understanding these people. After all, you can be homosexual without fulfilling them
It also means questioning the idea that homosexuality is an ideology and at the same time a sexual orientation, something that is logically impossible. Many of the ideas used to defend discrimination are based on criticism of ideological groups that are against homophobia, not homosexuality itself.
2. Consider the degree to which you believe in equality
The idea that all human beings are equal implies believing that, in the absence of very solid arguments based on scientific consensus that indicate otherwise, All individuals must enjoy exactly the same rights
Therefore, a good way to carry out a cognitive restructuring autonomously is to reflect on the reasons why it is believed that a minority such as that made up of homosexual people should not have the same rights as others. Are these beliefs well founded? Is there scientific consensus on the reasons why the treatment of these people should be different in certain aspects?
3. Write down the habits that feed homophobia
A person is what he thinks, but also what he does. That’s why one way to stop being homophobic is to reflect on the habits and habitual thought paths that fit with homophobia. stay alert to prevent its appearance
For example, thinking of homosexuality as an insult, or considering that all members of this minority meet the stereotypes that some people associate with the LGBT movement.
4. Learn to argue against homophobic comments
Reverse engineering homophobic beliefs of others It’s a good way to spot your flaws and logical cracks. This, in addition to being very useful for externalizing your change in perspective, is very intellectually stimulating, because it involves discovering new reasoning that opens up through the old beliefs that you previously held.
