Behavior Analytic Perspectives on Homosexuality: Analysis of the Scientific Publications

Abstract

Researchers such as Skinner and Holland have inquired about behavior analysis’ utility in overcoming relevant social problems like racism and sexism. Considering the relevance of homosexuality as a social issue and the field’s technological and scientific contributions for helping individuals and/or investigating relevant social phenomena, the aim of this study was to analyze behavior analysis scientific publications concerning issues related to homosexuality by pointing out what has been studied, the possible field’s contributions and gaps that could be addressed in future inquiry. The key-words “homosexuality”, “sexual orientation”, “heterosexuality” and “bisexuality” were searched in 13 behavior-analytic journals from Brazil and abroad. Four articles were found. In general, these studies analyzed homosexuality or homophobia from the contingencies of reinforcement and punishment to which individuals may have contacted, or examined the possible biological “causes” of homosexuality. A functional analysis of prejudiced behaviors and studies examining the use of jokes and/or other possible prejudiced behaviors as practices reinforced by the verbal community are examples of gaps that could be addressed in future research.