Gender assumptions are deeply ingrained in all aspects of society, including politics, law, medicine, education, economics, religion, media, etc. These cultural norms shape how people think about masculinity and femininity and influence their beliefs about acceptable behaviors for men and women. In particular, they have a profound effect on the way that heterosexual cisgender individuals view and treat lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and non-binary persons. This article will examine the ways in which these assumptions impact policy decisions, ethical standards, and societal treatment of LGBTQ populations worldwide.
Impact on Policy Decisions
One example of how cultural gender assumptions affect policy is seen in laws regarding marriage equality. Many countries around the world still do not recognize same-sex marriages as legal unions. This is because there is a widespread assumption that marriage should be between a man and a woman to create children and preserve traditional family structures.
This ignores the fact that many LGBTQ couples are unable or choose not to have children, and that families come in various forms beyond the nuclear unit.
There are numerous examples of homophobic legislation aimed at limiting the rights of LGBTQ people, such as banning conversion therapy or prohibiting adoption by same-sex parents. These policies are often justified based on religious or moral grounds but ignore the reality that sexual orientation and gender identity are innate traits that cannot be changed.
Ethical Standards
Cultural ideas about gender also inform ethical guidelines and expectations.
Healthcare providers may feel uncomfortable providing services related to gender affirmation surgery or hormone replacement therapy due to a lack of training or understanding of these procedures. They may also be reluctant to treat transgender patients with respect for their chosen name and pronouns, perpetuating stigma and discrimination against them. Similarly, employers may refuse to hire individuals who identify as queer or intersex, depriving them of economic opportunities.
Societal Treatment
Societal attitudes towards LGBTQ people are shaped by cultural assumptions about gender roles and norms. Some individuals view non-heterosexual behaviors as immoral or sinful while others believe they are deviant or abnormal. This can lead to violence, harassment, and discrimination against members of these communities. It is common for parents to reject their children if they come out as LGBTQ, leading to family conflict and disruption. In some cultures, there is even a belief that being gay or transgender is contagious, leading to ostracism and exclusion from schools and workplaces. Even in progressive countries like the United States, LGBTQ people still face daily microaggressions such as slurs and stereotypes, which contribute to psychological stress and mental health issues.
Cultural assumptions about gender play an important role in shaping policy decisions, ethical standards, and societal treatment of LGBTQ populations. By challenging these ideas, we can create more inclusive and equitable societies where all individuals are treated fairly regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The first step toward this goal is raising awareness and education about the complexities of human sexuality and diversity within our communities.
How do cultural assumptions about gender affect policy, ethics, and societal treatment of LGBTQ populations?
Cultural assumptions about gender can have a profound impact on policies regarding sexual orientation and gender identity, as they shape how people understand and respond to individuals who identify as something other than heterosexual cisgender. These assumptions can lead to discrimination, marginalization, and even violence against members of the LGBTQ community.