Citation

Ray TN, Parkhill MR. Psychol. Violence 2020; 10(4): 462-471.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/vio0000265

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Previous research suggests gay men are at increased risk to be targets of aggression. Much of antigay aggression is likely perpetrated by heterosexual men who strongly adhere to masculine gender norms and, thus, have amplified prejudicial attitudes toward gay men. The current study expands upon established models of antigay aggression by including the emotional components of disgust and emotion regulation difficulties.

METHOD: Exclusively heterosexual men living in the United States completed an online questionnaire consisting of measurements assessing masculine gender norms, disgust, sexual prejudice, impulse control difficulties, and aggression.

RESULTS: Findings support the theoretical notion that disgust may be influential in the development of sexual prejudice and aggression, particularly among men who strongly adhere to the masculine gender norms of antifemininity and status. In addition, an inability to control impulses subsequent to experiencing disgust may produce aggressive behavior toward perceived gay men.

CONCLUSIONS: Results provide empirical support for theories of antigay aggression while also expanding the scope of emotion literature. Implications call for future research and interventions attentive to healthy masculinity and improved emotion regulation skills in men. Such efforts may be crucial to reduce aggressive victimization among gay men. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)

Language: en