When are Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Citizens More Liberal and Participatory?

• In Event: Public Opinion Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

A growing body of research shows that Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual (LGB) citizens are more liberal and participatory than their heterosexual counterparts. Discrimination arguably motivates LGBs to participate politically and hold attitudes connected to improving their social status and rights. However, these studies miss comparisons between LGBs experiencing high and low levels of discrimination. In analyses of the European Social Survey, this study finds that higher levels of electoral, non-electoral participation, and liberal values among LGBs are moderated by experiencing discrimination, which depresses these higher levels.

Author

• Douglas Page, Gettysburg College