美国同性恋在20世纪60年代前后所处环境的对比研究.doc

A Comparative Study of American Homosexuality Beore and after the 1960s 1. Introduction 1.1 Background of the Study America has been known for its freedom, such as the freedom of religion, the freedom of speech, the freedom of press, the freedom of assembly, and the freedom to petition the government for redress of grievances. However, America is not an absolutely free country; there are still groups of people who feel discriminated against, such as the homosexuals. Homosexuality is the romantic or sexual attraction or behavior among member of the same sex, occasionally, or as an enduring disposition. Along with?bisexuality?and?heterosexuality, homosexuality is one of the three main categories of sexual orientation. The scientists can’t find the substantive reasons about why a person develops a particular sexual orientation. Biological experts have found that the cause of sexual orientation is based on the biologically theories,?and it has close connections with genetic factors, the early uterine environment, or both in combination. No evidence suggests that parenting or early childhood experiences plays a role when it comes to sexual orientation; when it comes to same-sex sexual behavior, shared or familial environment plays no role for men and minor role for women. Before the 1960s, many people in America held the view that homosexual activity was unnatural. Although America has been known for its freedom and the Americans’ mind is very open, homosexuality is still a controversial issue in America. Therefore, most people can’t have a right attitude to the homosexuals, while most of the homosexuals can’t realize themselves, and can’t accept themselves. Most people, especially the homosexual’s parents, think that homosexuality is a kind of psychological illness. In order to cure this psychological illness, aversion therapy is considered as a treatment for homosexuality. Aversion therapy can take many forms, for example: placing unpleasant-tasting substances on the