Heterosexism

Definition

Heterosexism is the belief or assumption that heterosexuality is the only normal and natural expression of sexuality, which leads to discrimination or bias against non-heterosexual orientations. This societal attitude often manifests in practices and policies that privilege heterosexual individuals over those who identify as LGBTQ+.

Related terms

Homophobia: The fear, hatred, discomfort with, or mistrust of people who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

Gender Binary: The classification of gender into two distinct, opposite forms of masculine and feminine, often based on someone's sex at birth.

Intersectionality: A framework for understanding how aspects of a person's social and political identities combine to create different modes of discrimination and privilege