Beliefs About the Origins of Homosexuality and Support for Gay Rights: An Empirical Test of Attribution Theory

Posted: 18 Aug 2009

Abstract

In this study, we employ Weiner's attribution theory of controllability to examine beliefs about the origins of homosexuality. If the cause of homosexuality is perceived as controllable (learned, environmental, or an individual choice), negative affect toward homosexuals and reduced support for policies relevant to the group can be expected. If the cause is perceived as uncontrollable (biological or genetic in origin), positive affect and increased support for polices is anticipated. Our analyses of data from two unique surveys of national adults corroborate these hypotheses, showing that positive feelings toward gays, support for gay civil rights, civil unions, and same-sex marriage are strongly determined by a genetic attribution for homosexuality. Attributions are in fact the strongest predictor of support. We distinguish our analysis from previous research by examining the important role of religion, ideology, and experience, in shaping attributions.

Suggested Citation

Haider-Markel, Donald P. and Joslyn, Mark R., Beliefs About the Origins of Homosexuality and Support for Gay Rights: An Empirical Test of Attribution Theory. Public Opinion Quarterly, Vol. 72, Issue 2, pp. 291-310, 2008, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1455023 or http://dx.doi.org/nfn015

Donald P. Haider-Markel (Contact Author)

University of Kansas ( email )

1541 Lilac Lane
Department of Political Science
Lawrence, KS 66045
United States
765-864-9034 (Phone)
765-864-5700 (Fax)

Mark R. Joslyn

University of Kansas ( email )

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