Research was reviewed regarding the negative results of homophobia on gays, lesbians
and bisexuals (GLB), and the economic impact of such negative effects. Homophobia
was defined as the irrational fear of, or aversion to, homosexuals and homosexuality,
while the related construct of heterosexism was defined as a belief system that values
heterosexuality as superior to and/or more natural than homosexuality, and/or the assumption
that all people are heterosexual. The reviewed research showed that GLB and
heterosexuals are equivalent in terms of psychological and psychosocial health and
functioning, but that GLB have a shorter life expectancy and face health risks and social
problems at a greater rate than heterosexuals. The reason for these increased problems
is the chronic stress placed on GLB from coping with society’s negative responses and
stigmatization.
Postpartum Depression Support
The subject of homosexuality and homophobia is often debated in terms of either morality or legality. Christopher
Banks, however, approaches the issue differently. In a pair of reports—The Co$t of Homophobia: Literature
Review on the Economic Impact of Homophobia On Canada and The Cost of Homophobia: Literature
Review on the Human Impact of Homophobia On Canada—Banks studies homophobia in terms of both its
toll on the Canadian economy and “premature” deaths. Through an examination of existing literature on
homosexuality and homophobia, Banks calculates both the human and economic impacts related to homophobia
in Canada.
Seeking to change many families’ perceived view of Social Services as a hostile environment, the Integrative Wraparound (IWRAP) Process takes a holistic approach to human and social services by involving clients as partners in their own aid. During one IWRAP training session in the summer of 2001, participants were asked to evaluate the effectiveness of the training session, instructors, and IWRAP concept. The results of this evaluation are summarized and analyzed in Dinah S. Amankwah’s report, Integrative Wraparound (IWRAP) Process Training.
