Language

Homophobic behaviour can start in the early years of primary school, when children frequently misuse words such as ‘gay’ as a generic insult or term of abuse.

Pupils should always be reminded that to recieve homophobic abuse you don't have to be Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual, so they need to think about how it would be if they were in that position of being different in some way. The development of values and attitudes in young children are very difficult to change by secondary school.

Exceeding Expectations advocates a Zero Tolerance approach to dealing with inappropriate and homophobic language. Consistency is the best approach for schools to address homophobic language. The theatre production, 'OUTLOUD', marks the beginning of a change in school culture , by asking the pupils to sign a charter and agree to a Zero Tolerance approach to homophobia. Posters are then given to the school to reinforce the culture change and assist teachers who are addressing the topic in their classes. Staff training also addresses this issue.

Negative use of the word 'gay' is the most common form of homophobia in our schools, it is pervasive and often common place as a means of describing an object, person or activity as rubbish. The problem with this is that approx 10% of young people at any one time may be questionning their sexuality and associating it with the negative use of the word. Understanding self-identification in addressing language use is key to getting it right.

We must ensure that the Policies of schools address homophobic bullying and language use. Staff can not intervene effectively and respond to homophobic language if it isn't part of policies and procedures.

Pupils should be told that homophobic language is not acceptable in school. Pupils using homophobic language should be told that it is offensive and a form of bullying, they should be asked if they understand. You may need to repeat this many times, but pupils will begin to understand that homophobic language is unacceptable and it will stop.

The effects of homophobic bullying should be explained to pupils, especially those who persist with homophobic language, explain that the culture of the school is changing, in the same way that the school addresses Racism. The parallel between Racism and Homophobia is a useful means of explaining discrimination and a zero tolerance approach. The effects of racism are similar to homophobia and it can assist young people from a black or ethnic background to identify with the feelings of a victim of homophobia.

Homophobia and homophobic bullying are major problems for pupils, parents, staff and all those involved with young people and their education, irrespective of whether they are straight, lesbian, gay or bisexual. Research shows that homophobic bullying:

• Increases truancy rates (72% of LGB adults reported a regular history of absenteeism at school- Rivers 2000).

• Lowers educational attainment (LGB adults were likely to have left school at 16yrs despite having good educational attainment).

• Increases self-harm and suicide rates amongst young people (50% LGB adults who had been bullied at school contemplated self-harm or suicide, while 40% had attempted suicide on at least one occasion – Rivers 2001).

• Increases risk taking behaviour related to substance misuse and sexual health.

• Increased likelihood of homelessness.

Research by Professor Ian Rivers, York St John College. Click here to read an article about this

Exceeding Expectations can provide schools with a resource pack which helps to address some of the issues associated with homophobic language use. This flow chart may help you to address homophobic language in your school.