How to stop being homophobic and accept the difference

In western countries there is a strong tradition based on discrimination against gay people. This cultural characteristic (which also appears and has appeared in many other societies) has not only been embodied in laws that discriminate against this minority, but has also had an effect on the way of thinking of the most.

In fact, even today it is not strange that homosexuals are criminalized and discriminated against taking advantage of the wildest excuses: from the appeal to a supposed "human nature" which coincidentally coincides with the description of what one thinks love and family should be, even biblical quotes interpreted as one is interested, going through myths about homosexuality that are not supported by scientific consensus.

Abandoning homophobia, step by step

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 understanding that there is no reason to discriminate against homosexuals and at the same time

catch 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 the 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. It is what makes, for example, some people associate the concept of "chemicals" with technology, pollution and processed foods, and others relate it to practically everything that exists (and that is composed of atoms and molecules).

In the present case, it is convenient to consider first if the cognitive scheme that is being applied to When thinking about the idea of ​​homosexuality it is useful to understand this concept in the best way possible. This involves questioning whether stereotypes that were related to homosexuals are in themselves indispensable to understand these people. After all, you can be homosexual without complying with them

It also involves 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 the belief that, in the absence of very solid arguments based on scientific consensus to the contrary, all individuals should have exactly the same rights.

Thus, a good way to autonomously carry out cognitive restructuring is to reflect on the reasons why those who believe that a minority such as homosexuals should not have the same rights as homosexuals. the rest. Are those beliefs well founded? Is there scientific consensus regarding the reasons why the treatment of these people should be different in certain aspects?

3. Write down the habits that fuel homophobia

A person is what he thinks, but also what he does. That is why one way to stop being homophobic is to reflect on habitual thinking habits and paths that fit with homophobia. stay alert to prevent its occurrence.

For example, thinking of homosexuality as an insult, or considering that all members of this minority fulfill the stereotypes that some people associate with the LGTB movement.

4. Learn to argue against homophobic comments

Reverse engineering the homophobic beliefs of others it's a good way to spot your flaws and logic cracks. This, in addition to being very useful to express your change of perspective, is very stimulating intellectually, because it involves discovering new reasonings that are opened through the old beliefs that you previously held your.