COLLEGE STUDENTS' ATTITUDES TOWARD GAYS AND LESBIANS

Abstract

A variety of pedagogical techniques have shown promising results in promotingacceptance and affirmation of gays and lesbians among students in socialwork, allied health, and education professions. In this article we examinewhether 211 students enrolled in a human sexuality course in a southeasternuniversity changed their attitudes toward gays and lesbians and identify differencesin attitudes by demographic groups. At pretest the sample scored moderatelynegative on the Index of Attitudes Toward Homosexuality. Scores weresignificantly lower at posttest. Males scored significantly higher than females atpretest, but their scores changed more at posttest. Human sexuality courses thatincorporate an exposure component are one way social work educators canchange negative attitudes toward gays and lesbians.