Psychological antecedents of heterosexuals' pro-gay activism behavior.
Previous research on heterosexuals' attitudes toward gays is characterized by a focus on negative attitudes and minimal use of behavioral dependent variables. In an attempt to rectify this situation, the present study explored the psychological antecedents of heterosexuals' pro-gay activism behavior in an undergraduate sample using the theory of planned behavior (Ajzen, 1991). Findings suggest that intentions predict activism behavior (in the form of signing an online petition supporting the construction of a new lesbian, gay, and bisexual resource center on their campus). In addition, attitudes toward the possible outcomes of the behavior, attitudes toward the behavior itself, and self-identity were found to predict intentions. Directions for future research on pro-gay activism are discussed.
Wilkinson
Wayne W
WW
Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, 148 N. Third Street, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA. wwilkinson@niu.edu
Sagarin
Brad J
BJ
D001290:Attitude; D002961:Civil Rights; D005260:Female; D020010:Heterosexuality / Q000523:psychology*; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012919:Social Behavior; D012922:Social Change; D055815:Young Adult