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Homophobic Bullying |
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Homophobic Bullying in Schools
Definition
"Homophobia is a dislike or fear of someone who is lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB). At it's most benign it involves passive resentment of LGB men and women. In its most destructive form it involves active victimization. Such attitudes can also affect anyone who is perceived to be homosexual or who does not conform to the stereotypical standards of masculine or feminine behaviour". (Stand up for us (Challenging homophobia in schools DfES/DH).
Types of bullying and where it occurs
Experiences of homophobic bullying as reported by 190 LGB men and women (Rivers 2000)
Experience.................Male (%)...Female (%)
Name calling................85..........69
Public ridicule.............75..........54
Hitting/kicking.............68..........31
Rumour-mongering............57..........67
Teasing.....................58..........56
Frightened by a look/stares.54..........44
Belongings taken............47..........31
Social isolation............24..........41
Sexual assault..............13...........5
Source: Stand up for us
Consequences of homophobic bullying
Personal and physical attacks
* see table above
Absenteeism
* 72%+ of those suffering homophobic bullying have a history of absenteeism
* the majority of pupils who experience homophobic bullying leave school at 16 regardless of qualifications
Mental Health
* 53% of those who have experienced homophobic bullying contemplate suicide
* 40% of those who have experienced homophobic bullying make at least one attempt at self harm
* 30% of those who have experienced homophobic bullying make at least two attempts at self harm
* In one study 22% of LGB youngsters attempted suicide
* One study found that those who experienced homophobic bulling at school were more likely to rely on alcohol and/or drugs
* Adults who were bullied at school are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety
Policy, Guidance & Legislation relating to schools addressing homophobia
From 2005, OFSTED will report on how schools promote the five outcomes: physical/mental health; safe & protected from harm/neglect; enjoying & achieving; positive contribution; economic well-being.
Sex & Relationships Education guidance 2000 - offers support for schools on how to deliver effective sex & relationship education. It states that: -
* schools must be able to deal with homophobic bullying
* all pupilsˇ¦ needs must be met regardless of sexuality
* staff should be able to deal honestly and sensitively with questions or issues surrounding sexual orientation
* the Government recognizes the existence of mutually supportive relationships outside marriage
Inspecting Schools framework (OFSTED 2003)
"Inspectors must judge pupils' personal development, what the school does to cultivate it, and how well pupils mature during their time in schools. Inspectors should also take into account any variations between groups of pupils".
Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2003
* bans discrimination or harassment on grounds of sexual orientation
* a school that fails to challenge a culture of homophobia could be challenged by an employee even if that employee has not been directly abused
Section 28 was repealed in July 2003, by a vote in the House of Lords. Even prior to this it was made clear (Local Government Act 2000) that "nothing shall prevent the head teacher or governing body of a maintained school, or a teacher employed by a maintained school, from taking steps to prevent any form of bullying".
Stand up for us was launched during anti-bullying week 2004. It has a checklist for challenging and responding to homophobia and homophobic bullying and highlights the ten aspects of National Healthy School Standards (NHSS) approach: -
* Leadership, management and managing change
* Policy development
* Curriculum planning & resourcing
* Teaching & learning
* School culture & environment
* Giving pupils a voice
* Provision of pupils' support services
* Staff professional development, health & welfare
* Partnership with parents, carers and local communities
* Assessing, recording and celebrating achievement
Essentially, this document is an excellent guide for schools who want some practical help in tackling homophobia.
February 21st 2007
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