Sexual Orientation

One of the consistent themes in this

course is how we can apply the Resources

concepts of acculturation and

assimilation to the experiences of Q] WEI-M-
different minority groups. For this

discussion, let us revisit these

concepts in relation to the experiences of gay, lesbian, and bisexual community members.

Reflect on shifting attitudes toward homosexuality and changes in the degree of prejudice and
discrimination directed toward gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals in American society since the
mid-2oth century.

0 Discuss how the concepts of acculturation, primary structural assimilation, and secondary
structural assimilation apply to sexual minorities. Choose one other group we have read about so
far in the course and describe the similarities and differences in how these concepts apply to both
groups. In other words, what similarities and differences do you see in terms of the acculturation
and assimilation of those who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual compared to the other minority group
you chose?