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

Abstract

The current study broadens our understanding of the range and diversity of attitudes relevant to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer (GLBTQ) civil rights debate, specifically toward those who identify as gay and lesbian. We first examine which factors best explain variation in perceptions of discrimination toward individuals who identify as gay and lesbian. 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 2013 (N = 1,504), 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. Implications for those engaged in family practice are discussed along with directions for future public opinion research on attitudes toward the GLBTQ population.