5 common myths about homosexuality debunked!
The world has not been kind to the same-sex loving community. It's high time we stop insulting and shaming these individuals, because having a different sexual orientation doesn't make them any less human. There have been certain wild, and senseless myths coming out of orthodox, and insecure minds, about homosexual beings. Here we debunk 5 common myths about homosexuality.
Myth 1: They choose to be gays and lesbians
The most-common myth about homosexuals is that these people 'choose' to become homosexuals at some point or other in their lifetime. Come to think of it, did you ever, in your life, sit down at a table over coffee and decide which gender to love and have sex with? Furthermore, research suggests that sexual orientation is, atleast partly, genetically or biologically influenced.
Myth 2: You can spot homosexuals by their looks, behavior
It is commonly said that gay men show feminine characteristics and behavior, and that all lesbian women look and act like tomboys. However, these are mere stereotypes that society came up with, similar to 'all women love pink.' On the face of it, most homosexuals aren't identifiable. And, why does it even matter though?
Myth 3: Homosexuality is a mental-health problem, can be cured
People have been duped into believing that homosexuality is but a mental health disorder, and thus can be treated. But the fact of the matter is that all major mental health institutes and professionals have clarified that this is not the truth. There's no 'cure' to homosexuality, in fact, trying to 'treat' it could actually lead to psychological issues like depression and anxiety.
Myth 4: Gays are more prone to STIs than others
It is widely believed that having sex with people from the same sex could increase the risk of getting sexually transmitted diseases/infections (STIs). On the other hand, medical common-sense says that having unprotected sex with anyone could lead to STIs. One's sexual orientation or gender has no role to play in it. It is recommended to always use a condom during all sexual acts.
Myth 5: Homosexual parents aren't as good as father-and-mother parents
Anti gay-rights individuals, who oppose same-sex marriages, claim that gays don't make good parents, and that a child needs typical 'father-mother' parents for healthy upbringing. However, research tells a different story. A study comparing children of same-sex couples and those of 'traditional' couples found that the academic performances in both the cases were similar, and children of gay couples fared quite well emotionally too.
