Internalised homophobia - meaning and definition
Alsointernalized homophobiainternalised biphobiainternalised transphobiainternalised stigma
Definition
Negative beliefs and feelings about LGBTQ+ people that someone has absorbed from society and turned towards themselves.
At a glance
- Prejudice against LGBTQ+ people that is turned inward.
- Comes from growing up surrounded by stigma.
- Can show up as shame, denial or judging others.
- Related to internalised biphobia and transphobia.
- Affirming support and therapy can help.
In detail
Growing up surrounded by prejudice can lead lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people to feel shame about their own attraction, to hide or deny it, or to judge others in the community. Similar processes are described as internalised biphobia and internalised transphobia.
It is not a personal failing but a response to stigma. Supportive communities, affirming relationships and LGBTQ+-aware therapy can help people unlearn these beliefs over time.
In a sentence
- Coming out was easier once I started working through my internalised homophobia.
- A lot of my old discomfort with Pride was internalised homophobia.
Common questions
Can you have internalised homophobia after coming out?
Yes. Coming out is often a process, and old beliefs can linger for years. Many people continue to unlearn them long after they are out.