Predictors of Heterosexual College Students’ Attitudes Toward LGBT People

Abstract

This study identifies the predictors of U.S. heterosexual undergraduate and graduate college students’ attitudes toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people as a group rather than toward individual identities. Findings suggest that affirming LGBT attitudes are most strongly associated with liberal political ideology and whether one believes in biological causation of transgender identity. Understanding sexual orientation as biological and having LGB friends, LGB immediate family members, and transgender friends are also important, but to a lesser degree. Age, gender, and select races/ethnicities and select religious affiliations are marginally associated with LGBT attitudes. These findings clarify areas to target for improvement in campus climate for LGBT persons, and implications for campus programs and research are discussed.