The effects of sexual orientation in the courtroom: a double standard

Homonegativity is a term that many psychologists use to describe irrational fear of homosexuality. Due to a growing number of male rapes in the United States and the unchecked levels of homonegativity, it is hypothesized that homosexuals will be treated differently from heterosexuals in sexual assault trials. Four conditions were examined controlling for the gender and sexuality of both the defendant and the victim and a sexual assault trial text was created controlling for factors known to affect juror's decisions. Seventy-two participants were divided among the four conditions. This research supports the hypothesis with highly significant results. Future research is suggested.