title: [Attitudes of adults towards homosexuality and knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases: part one].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This doctoral dissertation is the first scientific article in Poland with an in-depth analysis of subjective attitudes of members of various social groups towards persons with a homosexual orientation. The dissertation includes definitions of terms related to homosexuality, as well as changing opinions on gays and lesbians over the centuries from antiquity till modern times. Special attention is devoted to the biological background of human and animal homosexuality. Opinions of various experts are presented and the fate of homosexuals throughout history is discussed together with examples of persecution on one side and growing tolerance on the other. The aim of this study was to (a) investigate the attitudes of adults representing various social groups towards homosexuality; (b) evaluate the knowledge of respondents concerning biological and social aspects of homosexuality; (c) determine the degree of tolerance and acceptance of gays and lesbians.
  
  
  METHODS
  The study was done in 2255 respondents - students of various university faculties, as well as in teachers, servicemen, and cadets of the Military Academy. The study tool was a 24-item anonymous questionnaire.
  
  
  RESULTS
  1. Knowledge of problems relating to homosexuality differed among various social groups. Knowledge was highest among students of cultural studies and teachers. 2. The level of tolerance and acceptance towards homosexuals continues to rise, particularly among students of the humanities. 3. The type and field of studies has an impact on the shaping of attitudes of students towards the homosexually-oriented population. The highest level of acceptance was found among students of cultural studies and philosophy. Students of the military academy and physical education revealed animosity and negative attitudes. 4. Biological factors - gender and environmental factors - parents' social class - have an impact on the shaping of attitudes towards homosexuality. Males and respondents of peasant descent do not accept homosexuality. More positive attitudes are evolving among respondents of worker descent, possibly because of their migration to cities.
authors.affiliation: Katedra Profilaktyki Zdrowotnej Uniwersytetu Medycznego im. K. Marcinkowskigo ul. Smoluchowskiego 11, 60-179 Poznań.
authors.forename: Remigiusz Jarosław
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Tritt
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011044:Poland; D011159:Population Surveillance; D012929:Psychological Distance; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012923:Social Class; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires