Harnessing religious teachings to reduce sexual prejudice

Abstract

ABSTRACT Religion dictates the groups against whom it is seen as justifiable (even righteous) to express prejudice: often groups perceived of as violating core religious values. We review research demonstrating that for Christians, particularly conservative ones, religion seems to sanction prejudice against LGBT individuals. We describe the causes and the consequences of Christian/LGBT zero-sum beliefs (ZSBs): the extent to which gains for LGBT groups are seen as coming at a cost for Christians. We highlight how religious values can both exacerbate and mitigate ZSBs and sexual prejudice. When a Christian denomination decided to exclude gender and sexual minorities from full church participation, the Christians we interviewed disidentified with their denomination and strengthened commitment to their LGBTQ-friendly local congregations. Thus, we review how religious teachings can shape both group-based rejection and acceptance. We end with a discussion of educational programs for congregations, pastors, and methods to combat anti-LGBT bias.