Identifying Predictor Variables of Internalized Homophobia in Lesbians by Kristin A. Smiley

The purpose of this study was to identify six predictor variables of internalized homophobia in lesbians. These variables include: (a) generational cohort, (b) age, (c) number of years since coming out, (d) age at time of coming out, (e) gender role nonconformity, and (f) locus of control. A correlational design was implemented using two instruments: Levenson's Multidimensional Locus of Control Scale and the Lesbian Internalized Homophobia Scale. Data was collected on 712 participants from across the U.S. using an online survey methodological approach. Bivariate and multivariate analyses suggested that there was a strong relationship between internalized homophobia and the following variables: (a) gender role nonconformity, (b) internal locus of control, (c) powerful others locus of control, and (d) number of years since coming out. Specifically, internalized homophobia was negatively associated with gender role nonconformity, internal locus of control, and number of years since coming out. Having a powerful others locus of control, on the other hand, was positively related to internalized homophobia. Additionally, a post hoc analysis moderately supported a negative association between generational cohort and internalized homophobia showing younger lesbians as having greater internalized homophobia than two other cohorts. Regression analysis utilizing the age variable sustained the post hoc cohort results. Lastly, no significant association was found between internalized homophobia and the age at which a lesbian comes out of the closet.