Features of parents’ and teachers’ attitudes towards LGBT+ children
Abstract
Ukrainian society declares tolerance towards the LGBT+ community. Qualitative research methodology and in-depth interviews allowed to analyze and differentiate the peculiarities of parents’ and educators’ attitudes towards LGBT+ children. In particular, an imbalance between rational and emotional components of attitude is found. At the rational level, researchers declare that LGBT+ individuals are part of our society and should have the same rights as other Ukrainians. The factor of oppression and discrimination is poorly understood or not differentiated at all (sample of educators). It is noted that harassment and discrimination against the LGBT+ community are not usually associated with human rights abuses. There is a tendency of educators’ awareness of LGBT+ issues: on the one hand, declaring a high level of awareness, confidence that they know everything about it, and on the other hand, hidden, unconscious discrimination. At the emotional level, teachers are more likely to express confusion, fears, misunderstandings, rejection, latent aggression, indifference, pity, etc. According to educators, it is necessary to help those who suffer most (children, homeless animals, elderly people, ATO soldiers). The most frequently repeated thoughts and experiences of parents of LGBT+ children are, of course, issues of safety for their children and their families in general. Parents who have accepted their child’s orientation often perceive LGBT+ youth as more talented, creative, capable, interesting, promising, etc. compared to their heterosexual peers. At the same time, some parents of gays and lesbians do not accept the other part of the “spectrum” of LGBT+ people (for example, they do not understand transgender, non-binary, etc.). Equally important is the desire of parents of LGBT+ children to be a part of the adopted majority. They also have painful experience of discrimination. Parents of LGBT+ children demonstrated a higher level of information competence in comparison with educators. Further research envisages the development of socio-psychological technologies aimed at enhancing the tolerance of Ukrainian society towards variety and diversity
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