Self-help Articles

by Gail S. Bernstein, Ph.D.

What a good question! The answer, unfortunately, is yes.

The world often teaches us that gay, lesbian and bisexual people are sinful or depraved or abnormal. If you grow up with those messages and then realize you are one of those people, it's natural to feel badly about yourself. Fortunately, it is possible to change those feelings.

In my psychotherapy practice, I frequently treat people with "internalized homophobia." I try to introduce them to situations where their sexual orientation will be accepted, and I work with them on developing positive alternatives to the negative messages they're giving themselves.

One very useful book I recommend as part of this work is Positively Gay, edited by Betty Berzon. It's helpful for both people who are struggling with internalized homophobia and for their friends and families. Thanks for asking this important question.

About the Author:

Gail S. Bernstein, Ph.D. is an author and psychologist. She has a psychotherapy practice in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Bernstein speaks and writes about gay, lesbian and bisexual people for both general and professional audiences, and is the author of the audiotape, NOT HETEROSEXUAL: An Educational Program About Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual People.