Iconic illustrations initiate critical dialogues among heterosexual men who then develop critical consciousness around homophobia and sexism: A qualitative study

PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTS

Homophobia and sexism are threats to public health as they predict violent and often fatal behaviors toward people marginalized for their sexual orientation (gay men) and gender (women, transgender women, no-binary individuals). Critical Consciousness requires Critical Reflection, the foundation for Critical Action. Critical Reflection around homophobia and sexism was shown to be a process by which heterosexual men can improve tolerance and empathy toward gay men and women. This process was initiated by critical questions and observation of programmatic illustration meant to evoke deep-seated feelings and opinions on masculinities, heteronormativity, homosexuality, and gender roles. The main finding that heterosexual men can improve negative stances toward homophobia and sexism by developing Critical Consciousness supports interventions specifically targeting men, the main perpetrators of homophobic and sexist acts.

Keywords:

• Critical consciousness
• heterosexual men
• homophobia
• oppression
• sexism

Acknowledgment

The authors wish to thank Warren Thompson, Lecturer at the Department of Social Work (Rutgers University, Newark) for providing feedback in early versions of this manuscript. The authors also thank study participants for sharing their thoughts and feelings in an authentic manner.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities.