heterosexism
1
9.8
- noun
- /ˌhɛtərəʊˈsɛksɪzəm/
- Offensive
:
heterosexismo
- Although homophobia is still prevalent in many parts of this country, heterosexism is a much more common phenomenon.
- heterosexism and homophobia
- sexism and heterosexism
- racism and heterosexism
Examples
-
Earlier studies have documented disturbingly high levels of homophobia and heterosexism.
Academic text (2007) -
In this article, we identify the heterosexual assumption, namely heterosexism, as the primary issue surrounding the holistic care of the LGBTQ elder in LTC.
Academic text (2015) -
Each of these concerns is directly related to the concept of heterosexism.
Academic text (2015) -
The basic assumption of heterosexism is that all people are or should be heterosexual.
Academic text (2008) -
Conversely, one must caution against avoiding art, reading material, and television programs reflecting homophobia and heterosexism.
Academic text (2015) -
However, although homophobia may lead to heterosexism, being heterosexist does not require one to be overtly homophobic.
Academic text (2015) -
Also, societal homophobia and heterosexism pose threats to lesbian/gay couples, especially at holidays, for special occasions, or at vacation time.
Academic text (2000) -
Research on strategies for reducing homophobia (fear of homosexuality) and heterosexism (neglect of and prejudice against nonheterosexuals) is also sadly lacking.
Academic text (2003) -
Many educational programs aim to raise awareness about heterosexism and promote acceptance of all sexual orientations.
-
Activists are working tirelessly to eradicate heterosexism in society and foster inclusivity for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Synonyms
1
9.9
The idea that straight relationships and traditional gender roles are normal and preferred in society
A social system that treats relationships with the opposite sex as normal and unfairly excludes others
A view that treats being attracted to the opposite sex as normal and excludes other attractions
A viewpoint that thinks only straight relationships are normal
Antonyms
How Heterosexist
- Offensive
1
9.8
147
4.7
- Specialized
261
5.2
160
3.7
101
2.9
Surface Forms
Morphology
heterosexism = heterosexual (transparent) = hetero + sex + ism
The term is transparently formed from the combining element hetero- (opposite/different) + sex and the productive suffix -ism meaning an ideology or system, so learners who know 'heterosexual' or 'sex' and '-ism' can infer the meaning.
Etymology
Heterosexism breaks into hetero-, which means 'different' and appears in heterosexual, plus sex and the ending -ism, which marks a belief or system like in racism. So heterosexism is the belief that being 'hetero' or 'straight' is the only normal sexual orientation, and that belief leads to unfair treatment of people who are not straight.