Factors Distinguishing Samples of Lesbian and Heterosexual Women
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1991
Department
Psychology
Abstract
This study utilized non-clinical samples of women and examined historical, familial, sexual, and attitudinal variables to assess differences between groups endorsing heterosexual or homosexual orientations. Drawing from social learnign theory, researchers expected the lesbian group to report more negative childhood sexual experiences with males, more positive childhood sexual experiences with females, more accepting parental attitudes toward sexuality and sexual experimentation, and more distant relationships with parents. Results indicate tha, rather than childhood sexual experiences distinguishing groups, respondents' current attitudes are significant between-group discriminators. These findings are consistent with the recent body of literature that suggests that sexual orientation cannot be explained in terms of early sexual trauma or negative heterosexual experiences.
Publication Title
Journal of Homosexuality
Volume
21
Issue
4
First Page
1
Last Page
15
Recommended Citation
Peters, D. K.,
Cantrell, P. J.
(1991). Factors Distinguishing Samples of Lesbian and Heterosexual Women. Journal of Homosexuality, 21(4), 1-15.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/7070