What causes Heterosexism?

Heterosexism and Homophobia stem from two main beliefs. . .

Belief Number One: To be attracted to and love a person of the same sex is abnormal, disgusting and sick.

Belief Number Two: To be attracted to and love a person of the same sex is immoral and sinful, an act which goes against the word of God.

More Generally Speaking...

Heterosexism, like racism, ageism, and sexism, is grounded in fear of the unknown and an unwillingness to learn. It is a matter of close-mindedness.

This can become very destructive, both to the individual who holds these beliefs, and those who are the victims of their expression. Prejudice and discrimination against homosexuals flows from the belief that heterosexism is "normal", making homosexuality "abnormal" and thereby unacceptable.

Heterosexism can also be a response to, or cause of homophobia. This extreme fear of homosexuality sets heterosexism apart from the other social -isms.