The Hidden Harm Caused by Early Exposure to PrejudiceWitnessing homophobia in childhood can silently shape identity for years to come.
Link to Full ArticlePsychology Today - Chris Tompkins
Posted August 12, 2025
Research in child development shows that most of our core beliefs are formed in early childhood, often between ages three and five. During these years, children are absorbing not just what adults say, but also the emotional tone, facial expressions, and subtle messages around them.
When those early messages include fear, rejection, or shaming of certain groups of people, including LGBTQ people, they can settle deep into a child's belief system—even if the child is not yet aware of their own identity. Those beliefs may remain invisible for years, until life circumstances bring them to the surface.
Even if a child hears a single slur, sees a parent flinch at two men holding hands, or grows up in a home where certain topics are simply "not talked about," those moments count as exposure. Each one has the potential to influence how they see themselves or others years down the road.
From a clinical perspective, prevention is far more effective than treatment. It's easier to stop prejudice from taking root than to try to undo it later.
... those who have lived with years of homophobia—whether from others or internalized—benefit from environments that affirm their worth and challenge harmful beliefs.------------------------
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