the idea held by some gay, lesbian and bisexual people that heterosexuality is the “correct” way to be, and that their own sexuality is immoral or a disorder, which may lead to feelings of self-disgust or self-hatred.

Internalised homophobia may lead to individuals living in the closet or coming out at a late age; living in denial as a heterosexual (in which they may marry and raise families in the hope of being “cured”); seeking dangerous and harmful conversion therapies; disgust and/or contempt for other Queer people, particularly those who are out; denial of homophobia/biphobia in society; unsafe sexual practices with ‘discreet‘ people; mental health issues, substance abuse and obsessive behaviours; and suicide.

It may also lead to more low-levels forms of homophobia, such as wishing to prevent access to Queer people in cultural or social institutions (for example, an aversion to marriage equality), low opinions of other gay/bisexual people (particularly those who are out and proud) or those who are ‘stereotypically’ gay (e.g. effeminate men) – and as such, making yourself sexually unavailable to same-sex attracted people and falling solely for straight people, or even just referring to one’s partner as a “friend” to avoid disclosing a same-sex relationship.

Internalised homophobia may also lead to attitudes that, on the surface, do not appear homophobic: such as an intense dislike of heterosexuals, or a feeling of superiority to them – in itself a reactionary attitude towards the homophobia experienced.

Much like other forms of homophobia, it stems from social, religious and cultural attitudes in which homosexuality is painted in a bad light.