Is homophobia in men caused by a latent attraction to other men?

The idea that homophobia in men is caused by a reaction to their own unwanted attraction stems from psychoanalysis, where it is considered a psychological defense mechanism. However, recent research appears to add further support to this claim.

Cheval et al. (2015) examined the homophobia of 38 heterosexual men. They then examined their 'impulsive approach tendencies' towards men, that is, their latent attraction. The researchers found that homophobic men spent significantly more time looking at pictures of gay couples in comparison to the non-homophobia participants.

The researchers concluded that their findings provide evidence consistent with the idea that "some men high in homophobia indeed have a sexual interest toward homosexual stimuli, whereas others do not" and that they "provide a better understanding of the psychological processes involved in the processing of erotic gay material among men high in homophobia...".

To read an interesting summary of this research, click here.

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