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Essay / Same-sex relationships - 1814
Same-sex relationships have been observed around the world for many years. It took many years for human same-sex relationships to come to the forefront throughout history, and it seems the same is true for animals. Thanks to research and studies, same-sex relationships are increasingly recognized in both animals and humans. In both human and animal relationships, there are many sex and gender implications. Historical perspectives of not presenting sexualities outside the norm due to resistance, despite strong research-based evidence, are now used to support the sensitive nature of the subject. Brett describes the science of same-sex relationships between animals. Science and knowledge are inculturated (Fausto-Sterling) and scientists have seen heterosexuality, where others now see homosexuality. Heterosexuality is considered a “normal” way of life within society, but it is important to examine all ways of living. Homophobia seems to be a gender issue. Men tend to be considered more homophobic than women (Frank, 2008). The behaviors exhibited by some men in society support this assertion. Negative comments, bullying and physical attacks have been documented due to homophobic behavior. As Hopkins' article “Gender Treachery” shows, the term “girl” means “a failure of masculinity,” “a failure to meet a gendered standard of behavior,” and “a gendered standard of identity” (p. 130). . In other words, the term girl is used to intimidate male individuals who appear more "feminine." Is homophobia simply “intrinsic to contemporary heterosexual masculinity?” » (Franck 2008). I do not believe that the term homophobia is simply intrinsic to the contemporary hero... middle of article... 244-248). In di Leonardo, M. & Lancaster, R. (Eds.) The Gender/Sexuality Reader. New York, NY: Routledge. Frank, K., (2008). “Not gay, but not homophobic”: Male sexuality and homophobia in the “lifestyle”. Sexualities, 11 (4), 435-454. Retrieved March 17, 2010, from Academic Search Premier database. Gill, R. (2008). Empowerment/Sexism: Understanding female sexual agency in contemporary advertising. Feminism and Psychology, 18 (1), 35-60. Retrieved March 20, 2010, from Academic Search Premier database. Hopkins, P. (1992). Gender betrayal (pp. 129-151). In Ashton-Jones, E., Olson, G.A. and Perry, MG (Eds.) Gender Reader. Toronto: Longman. Looy, H., Bouma, H., (2005). The nature of gender: Gender identity among intersex or transgender people. Journal of Psychology and Theology, 33(3), 166-178. Retrieved March 24, 2010 from Academic Search Premier Database.