SDS-STEREOTYPES AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS HOMOSEXUALITY

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between both the explicit and implicit SDS-stereotypes of adolescents and their attitudes towards homosexuality as well as the possible effect of gender on this relationship. The sample comprised of seven high schools in different parts of the Netherlands, consisting of 259 students aged 16-18 years (M = 16.88, SD = 0.78) of which 53% were females. Explicit stereotypes were examined with a questionnaire. Additionally, implicit stereotypes were tested with an Implicit Association Test (IAT). Two hierarchical regression analyses were performed separately. Results showed that girls held more positive attitudes towards homosexuality than boys. In both analyses, there was no relationship found between SDS-stereotypes and attitudes towards homosexuality. There was also no moderator effect found. Implications and future directions of this research are discussed.