Gay and Lesbian Lifestyles: Implications for Social Workers

Homosexuality is one of a range of lifestyles that social workers encounter. Societal attitudes towards homosexuality are, in general, negative. Gays and lesbians face discrimination in employment and education and suffer social disapproval. This paper summarises prevalent stereotypes about homosexuality and considers how these have stood up in the face of recent research. It concludes with a discussion of the social work needs of homosexual people and of possible strategies for intervention.