Discrimination against GLBT’s traditionally has been referred to as homophobia.  This generally is defined as an irrational fear or dread of homosexuals.  However, in recent years homoseuality has begun to be associated more negatively, sometimes sparking violent feelings and behaviors on the part of heterosexuals;  the growing instances of “gay bashings” across the country have been alarming.

Today, heterosexism is a better term to describe the broader context of cultural victimization and oppression of GLBT’s.  Heterosexism continues to promote heterosexual lifestyles, while ignoring or dismissing other possibilities (Niesen 1990).

The negative effects of heterosexism include:

• Self-blame for one’s sexuality or the victimization suffered.
• A negative self-concept developed as a result of years of growing up hearing derogatory messages about homosexuality.
• Anger directed at oneself resulting in destructive patterns that may include drinking, drug abuse, and/or suicide attempts.
• Development of a victem mentality towards life, in which

Heterosexism has caused many GLBT clients to live a duality.  On the outside, they follow the heterosexual model so they can fit in and get along with others.  On the inside they want desperately to be themselves and let everyone know who they are.  This duality leads to secret keeping.  And couselors know that it is “the secrets that keep us sick.”

So take this person, put him or her in the treatment setting and now he or she is keeping secrets about their secret-keeping.  This type of vicious cycle offers bleak prospect for recovery.