A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study on Awareness and Acceptance of Homosexuality in Coimbatore.

INTRODUCTION

Acceptance of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) community among the public varies greatly depending on cultural and social factors. The present study estimated homosexuality acceptance and the factors influencing its recognition among the general population in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed among people residing in urban and rural field practice areas of a tertiary care hospital in Coimbatore. Using a multistage random sampling method, people over 18 years of age were selected. A total of 670 individuals participated, and data was obtained. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and homosexuality acceptance were collected using the Homosexuality Attitude Scale.

RESULTS

Overall, homosexuality acceptance was 61% among the community. Homosexuality acceptance was significantly associated with age (p<0.001), residence (p=0.014), marital status (p<0.001), religion (p<0.001), education (p=0.001), and occupation (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Overall acceptance was better among young participants as compared to the elders. Thus, our study highlights the need for a shift in perspective among the older generation, which may significantly improve their overall acceptance of homosexuality.