HETEROSEXISM Meaning and
Definition
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Heterosexism is a term used to describe a system of beliefs, attitudes, and practices that hold heterosexuality as the only normative and legitimate sexual orientation, thereby marginalizing and discriminating against individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer (LGBTQ+).
Heterosexism is rooted in the assumption that heterosexuality is superior to other sexual orientations and should be privileged and protected by society. It involves the reinforcement of societal norms and expectations that perpetuate heteronormativity, which is the belief that there are only two distinct and complementary genders, male and female, and that heterosexual relationships are the only acceptable and natural form of sexuality.
The concept of heterosexism extends beyond individual acts of prejudice or discrimination, encompassing institutional and systemic biases that disadvantage LGBTQ+ individuals. These biases can manifest in various forms, such as the denial of legal rights and protections, exclusion from certain social institutions, unequal treatment in healthcare and employment, and social stigmatization.
Heterosexism can also result in the erasure or invisibility of LGBTQ+ experiences, identities, and relationships. This exclusionary mindset assumes that heterosexuality is the default and that non-heterosexual orientations are abnormal or deviant. It perpetuates stereotypes, reinforces gender roles, and can lead to the internalization of negative self-perceptions among individuals who do not conform to heteronormative expectations.
Addressing and dismantling heterosexism requires recognizing and challenging the construction of institutional and societal systems that perpetuate discrimination based on sexual orientation. It involves advocating for equal rights, increasing LGBTQ+ visibility and representation, promoting inclusive policies and practices, and fostering empathy and understanding towards diverse sexual orientations.
Common Misspellings for HETEROSEXISM
Etymology of HETEROSEXISM
The term "heterosexism" is derived from the combination of two words: "hetero" and "sexism".
"Hetero" is a Greek prefix meaning "different" or "other", and it is commonly used to indicate something relating to the opposite sex. In the context of sexuality, "hetero" is used to refer to people who are attracted to individuals of the opposite sex or opposite gender identity.
"Sexism" is a term coined in the mid-20th century to describe prejudice, discrimination, or stereotyping based on a person's sex or gender. It primarily originated from the English word "sex" combined with the suffix "-ism", which denotes a system, belief, or practice.
Similar spelling words for HETEROSEXISM
- heterozygous,
- heterogeneous,
- heterostraci,
- heterospory,
- heterosexual,
- heterogeneity,
- heteroscelus,
- heterocycle,
- heteroicous,
- heterosporous,
- heteroecious,
- heterogenesis,
- heterosexuality,
- heterogenous,
- heterosomata,
- heterosexualism.
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