Changing Perspectives? Public Opinion, Perceptions of Discrimination, and Feelings Toward the Family

• In Event: More than Marriage: Supporting Family and Interpersonal Health

Abstract

The current study broadens our understanding of the range and diversity of attitudes relevant to the GLBT civil rights debate. We first examine which factors best explain variation in perceptions of discrimination toward gays and lesbians. A second analysis explores feelings toward or being upset upon learning that a child is gay or lesbian. Analyzing survey data collected by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press in May of 2013 (N = 1504), the results suggest that while demographics and political predispositions are important predictors of perceptions of discrimination, religious objections and church attendance are more central to the case of family acceptance. The influence of social contact and preexisting attitudes are explored as well.

Authors

• Amy B. Becker, Loyola University Maryland

• Maureen E Todd, Towson U