The Co$t of Homophobia: Literature Review on the Economic Impact of Homophobia On Canada

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.