Table of Contents

Table of Contents.....................................................................................................................................................
Research Topic, Question & Hypothesis....................................................................................................................
Research Topic...........................................................................................................................................................................
Hypothesis..................................................................................................................................................................................
Topic Selection Justification & Topic Relation to Syllabus.........................................................................................
Justification of Topic Selection...................................................................................................................................................
Explanation of why the topic was chosen
Explanation of Topic Relation too CAFS Syllabus........................................................................................................................
Explanation of how the topic relates to the Community and Family Studies Syllabus
Preliminary Core 1: Resource Management...........................................................................................................................................
Preliminary Core 2: Individuals and Groups............................................................................................................................................
Preliminary Core 3: Families and Communities......................................................................................................................................
Research Methodologies, Sample Methods & Sample Group....................................................................................
Research Methodologies............................................................................................................................................................
Describing the Research Methodologies too be used to collect Primary and Secondary Data & Justifying their selection
Primary Research Methodology - Questionnaires..................................................................................................................................
Primary Research Methodology - Interviews..........................................................................................................................................
Secondary Research Methodology - Literature Review..........................................................................................................................
Sample Methods........................................................................................................................................................................
Describing and Justifying the selection of Sampling Methods
Sample Method - Stratified Sample Method..........................................................................................................................................
Sample Method - Self-Selected Sample Method....................................................................................................................................
Sample Group.............................................................................................................................................................................
Sample Group - Homosexuals.................................................................................................................................................................
Required Information & Possible Secondary Sources................................................................................................
Possible Secondary Sources of Data...........................................................................................................................................
Identifying possible secondary sources of data specific to research topic
Possible Types of Secondary Sources to be Used....................................................................................................................................
Possible Relevant Secondary Sources to be Studied and Analysed.........................................................................................................
Required Information to Support Research................................................................................................................................
Details of the information required to support research
Relevant Information Required to Support Research.............................................................................................................................
Expected Research Outcomes..................................................................................................................................
Expected Outcomes of Research................................................................................................................................................
Proposing the expected outcomes of the research
Expectations and Hope’s regarding Research Outcomes........................................................................................................................
Related Terminology................................................................................................................................................
Terminology List.........................................................................................................................................................................
A list of terminology & definitions related to the research & research topic
Possible Difficulties..................................................................................................................................................
Possible Difficulties to be Encountered......................................................................................................................................
Brief outline of the possible difficulties that may be encountered when conducting research
Bias.........................................................................................................................................................................................................
Validity & Reliability................................................................................................................................................................................
Ethical Issues...........................................................................................................................................................................................
Timeline..................................................................................................................................................................

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 Research Timeline......................................................................................................................................................................
A realistic timeline of research -> including actions & goals needed to complete research
Timeline of Main Goals...........................................................................................................................................................................
Detailed Timeline of Progress, Goals and Timeframes for Completion...................................................................................................

Research Topic, Question & Hypothesis

Research Topic
The effects of homophobia & sexuality-based discrimination on the well-being of homosexuals

Related Question
How does homophobia affect the well-being of homosexuals?
What effects does homophobia have on the well-being of homosexuals?

Hypothesis
Homophobia has a significant negative impact on all aspects of a homosexuals well-being. It leads to psychological,
emotional and social issues that conclusively impact a homosexuals well-being negatively. Thus, leading to negative
effects on a homosexuals well-being through its effects on mental health, self-esteem & quality of life.

Topic Selection Justification & Topic Relation to Syllabus

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 Justification of Topic Selection
Explanation of why the topic was chosen

The main reasons that led to me electing the topic, “The effects of homophobia & sexuality-based discrimination on the
well-being of homosexuals”, was my passion for psychology and advocacy of minorities.

I wanted to advocate and bring awareness to the issue of homophobia, due to my strong and extensive personal
connection with the topic. Growing up with gay parents, surrounded by family and friends who were also non-
heteronormative, I was exposed to the differences in treatment due to an individual's sexuality frequently, but also
exposed to the many forms homophobia comes in. I witnessed sexuality-based discrimination from an early age, but
also experienced homophobia from an early age from teachers, friends, parents and family.

My familiarity with the issue, and early subjection to the powerful impacts homophobia can have on an individual's
well-being, motivated my desire to highlight the issue and the extensive impacts homophobia can have. Furthermore, I
have always felt that sexuality-based discrimination is an immense issue in society, but one that is so underrepresented
and hidden away by society, government bodies, and the media. I wanted to draw focus on the impacts, but also shed
light on the way treatment and attitudes towards heteronormative people are so different to the treatment
heterosexuals receive.

Furthermore, my passion and deep interest in the field of psychology further motivated my decision to choose “The
effects of homophobia & sexuality-based discrimination on the well-being of homosexuals” for the topic of my research
project.

This is relevant as homophobias’ effects on wellbeing are deeply interconnected and influenced by many factors.

I find the interrelationships between society, individual upbringing, culture, environment, fear and lack of education,
and how these factors influence an individuals views and behaviours, and how they can lead to homophobia or
discriminatory actions and views, deeply intriguing. Furthermore, the way these factors can have impacts on another
individual's mental-health and wellbeing is also a concept that I am drawn to.

Thus, by choosing this topic for my research project, it allows me to meticulously explore the nuances of how societal
attitudes and actions can affect the mental-health and well-being of a minority group.

Because of my personal connection to this issue, I have gained a passion for learning about, and advocating for social
justice and equality, and, by exploring the effects homophobia has on an individuals fundamental well-being, I can use
my research to advocate, raise awareness and foster understanding and further education in my community, as well as
society.

Explanation of Topic Relation too CAFS Syllabus

Explanation of how the topic relates to the Community and Family Studies Syllabus

My chosen topic for my research, “The effects of homophobia & sexuality-

based discrimination on the well-being of homosexuals”, relates to many
areas of the content we have studied the ‘Community and Family Studies’
syllabus, throughout 2023.

Preliminary Core 1: Resource Management

The first Preliminary Core we studied was ‘Resource Management’, which my research topic predominantly relates to
the most.

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This syllabus module focused on the fundamentals of wellbeing, needs and
wants, resources and resource management. It focuses on individual
wellbeing, and the factors that affect individual wellbeing, as well as needs
and wants, focusing on the specific needs of an individual, as well as human
and non-human resources, availability and accessibility of resources, and
personal management skills individuals can use to manage their resources,
meet their specific needs, and achieve a positive and stable wellbeing.
The research I aim to gather throughout my IRP, from both my primary and secondary research relates directly to
many of the topics in the ‘Resource Management Preliminary Core’.
The goal of my research is to investigate how homophobia impacts the
social, physical, economical, emotional, cultural and spiritual aspects of a
homosexuals well-being. Then, to analyse the data I gather to determine
the specific effects homophobia has on the six factors of an individual's
well-being.

My research will also aim to study the interrelationships present between

an individuals’ safety and security needs, health needs, educational needs,
employment needs, sense of identity needs, and the need for an adequate
standard of living.

Furthermore, inferences to how homophobia can influence the accessibility

and availability of human and non-human resources will be made, as they
are deeply interrelated with the ability an individual has to meet their
specific needs. Thus, providing further evidence on the precise effects
sexuality-based discrimination has on an individual's ability to meet their
specific needs.

My investigations will reflect personal management skills, such as planning,

organisation, effective communication, decision-making and problem-
solving, and the ways an individual can develop and use their personal
management skills to effectively overcome challenges, adapt to change,
satisfy their specific needs, effectively manage their resources, and achieve
a positive, holistic wellbeing.

To gather in depth research for my IRP, multiple interviews will be carried

out, as one of my two elected primary research methodologies. Interviews
where selected as they will allow me to gather reliable first-hand responses
that can be easily validated, and will bare extensive detail through
individuals personal experiences and insights.

Preliminary Core 2: Individuals and Groups

The second Preliminary Core we studied was ‘Individuals and Groups’, which my research topic heavily relates to.

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 This second syllabus module focuses predominantly on groups in
communities, roles individuals adopt within groups, power within groups
and conflict within groups. It focuses on the types of groups formed
within communities and the reasons for the formation of groups within
communities, the specific roles individuals adopt within groups and the
factors that contribute to the roles they adopt, power bases and their
influence on group dynamics, the different styles of leadership and the
factors that influence leadership styles, as well as the causes of conflict
within groups and the process of conflict resolution.
Within the research I am to collect, I aim to gather information about the
importance of community and support systems present within the
community. Support systems that are commonly present within
communities are groups that are formed based on shared values, goals,
beliefs or specific needs. Thus, groups formed for sexuality-related
reasons are commonly formed within communities.
If heterosexual individuals are a part of any type of group within a
community, if their wellbeing has been negatively impacted due to
sexuality-based discrimination, the potential roles an individual may
adopt within a group setting may be influenced. As homophobia can
affect self-esteem, self-confidence and an individual's sense of belonging,
the roles they may choose to adopt within groups may be impacted.
Furthermore, the role an individual adopts within their group can also
contribute to their individual state of wellbeing.
For example; an individual who has experienced homophobia or sexuality-based discrimination, will likely have lowered self-esteem
and self-confidence, a decreased sense of belonging, and some kind of preexisting, negative associations with social interactions.
Therefore, these personal factors will contribute to the role they adopt within a group.
Social factors also contribute to an individual's sense of belonging within
the group. An individual's relationships with members of the group, gender
expectations prevalent in the group environment, as well as the attitudes of
group members, all can further impact aspects of an individual's wellbeing.
These social factors heavily relate to my research topic, and the research I aim to collate.
An example of how this applies to my research is, if homophobia or sexuality-based discrimination is prevalent in a
group, it may create fractured ties within the group, alongside a lowered sense of group cohesion. Thus, having
negative effects on an individual's relationships with other group members, and increasing the chances of conflict to
occur within the group.

Furthermore, if homophobic or discriminatory attitudes are present within the group, there are heightened chances of
conflict to occur within the group due to member’s incompatible goals, ineffective communication, varying values and
individual differences. If the attitudes, values, beliefs, goals and leadership styles differ across the group, this can
impact the wellbeing of individuals within the group, but will also impact the groups’ approaches to the process of
conflict resolution.

If an individuals’ well being has been negatively impacted by experiences of

homophobia or sexuality-based discrimination, these negative experiences
and decreased sense of wellbeing is likely to influence the roles they choose
to adopt within a group. This can impact their individual wellbeing, as well
as the groups wellbeing as relationships may become weaker, and
influences on the groups progress and cohesion are likely, which may
jeopardise the groups ability to achieve tasks.
The presence of norms and pressures to conform that are prevalent in
society and culture, may also influence the roles an individual may adopt

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 within the group, as well as group cohesion.
Furthermore, the presence of norms and pressures to conform that are prevalent in society may also influence the
roles an individual may adopt within the group, as well as group cohesion.
For example; If a non-heteronormative individual is a member of a predominantly heteronormative group, they may feel pressure
to conform to the norms of the group, or to conform to certain stereotypes prevalent within the group.
This unit is relevant to my research as attitudes, goals, values, approaches to conflict resolution and leadership styles
prevalent in a group can also impact the wellbeing of an individual in a variety of ways.

Furthermore, as the goal of my research is to investigate the effects of homophobia on a homosexual individual's
wellbeing, I also hope to explore how an individual's state of well-being influences their interactions and involvement
with groups within their community.

Preliminary Core 3: Families and Communities

The third Preliminary Core I studied was ‘Families and Communities’, which indirectly links to my research topic.

This third syllabus module revolves around the different structures of a

family, the roles individuals adopt within families to satisfy specific needs,
promote wellbeing and build positive relationships, as well as the
management of different types of change.

Using interviews and questionnaires, I am to gather specific data from

individuals who are a part of a family, as well as parents/parental figures
who have had children at some stage in their life. I hope to gather data on
the impacts of the occurrence of homophobia within a variety of family
structures, as well as personal experiences from heterosexuals who have
started their own family, and/or had children of their own.
Furthermore, I hope to use the same questions to gather data from individuals who are a part of different family
structures, to increase the scope and reliability of my research, as well as increase the generalizability of the data I
collect. I also aim to use the same questions to gather responses from heteronormative individuals, as I can then use
the contrasting responses to directly compare the data, and draw more conclusive and accurate analysis’.

Gathering specific data on the prevalence of homophobia in families, or on

heterosexual parents, and highlighting the differences in treatment
between heterosexual and heteronormative individuals.
I hope to be able to explore the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships and interpersonal
relationships in both a family and community environment, and how they promote a positive sense of belonging,
improve self-confidence, and contribute to developing and maintaining a positive sense of wellbeing.
Furthermore, I also hope to gather data through my primary and secondary
research that highlights how homophobia’s negative impacts on an
individuals well-being, can then reflect and transfer onto their family
and/or community, and negatively affect the families'/communities’ well-
being.

In this module, we also studied the types of support available for individuals
and families. Through my research, I aim to investigate the importance and
benefits of formal support systems, as well as informal support systems.
The impacts of homophobia on an individual's wellbeing usually prompts an individual to seek at least one type of
support. Thus, both formal and informal types of support can help families and communities support an individual
experiencing homophobia, or coping with the impacts on their wellbeing.

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 To gather in depth research for my IRP, I will be utilising questionnaires as
my second primary research methodology.

I elected questionnaires as they are a reliable method for primary research collection as they allow for a range of
quantitative and qualitative data to be easily collected and recorded from a wider population sample size in a
reasonable timeframe, responses cannot be influenced by the researcher (myself) thus avoiding researcher bias, and
each respondent is given an equal amount of time to fill out the questionnaire, which increases the reliability of the
data to be collected.

To gather additional research and statistics for my IRP, I will be utilising

literature reviews as my main method of secondary research collection.
As literature reviews are very versatile, they will allow for me to gather extensive sets of preexisting information on my
research topic, from a variety of sources and media-types, whilst also allowing for me to accurately check the reliability
and validity of the secondary source. Furthermore, literature reviews will allow me to efficiently collate quantitative
and qualitative information, as well as research historical context, and identify changes that have occurred throughout
time that my primary research cannot effectively or reliably identify.

Research Methodologies, Sample Methods & Sample Group

Research Methodologies
Describing the Research Methodologies too be used to collect Primary and Secondary Data & Justifying their selection

Primary Research Methodology - Questionnaires

Definition

A questionnaire is defined as,

“A set of formally prepared questions that seek information (statistics) on a person's views, knowledge, feelings, beliefs
and opinions. Questionnaires are completed by the respondent without any input by the researcher.” (Al, 2014, #82)

Describe Method

‘A questionnaire is a research methodology that consists of a set of formally prepared questions (structured or
unstructured) that aim to collect information from a respondent.’
(Bhat, 2023)

Questionnaires are completed by the respondent, without any interference or interaction with the researcher. This
avoids researcher bias, and allows the participant to fill in the questionnaire in their own time.

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The questions in a questionnaire are pre-prepared by the researcher, usually after the researcher has conducted some
fundamental research by reviewing pre-existing secondary sources of data relating to the research topic, in order to
gain a basic understanding of the research topics’ fundamental components, as well as to acquire necessary
information regarding the historical context of the topic, and the changes and evolution of the topic (if relevant).

The aim of a questionnaire is to seek data from the participants' responses, based on the respondents individual
knowledge, views, beliefs, feelings, opinions, preferences, and personal experiences.

Justify selection of method

The many advantages of using questionnaires as a primary research method lead me to electing to use questionnaires
for my IRP. I found that questionnaires were the strongest primary research methodology for my IRP, as its
characteristics were viewed as greatly useful to gather data and statistics for my IRP, whilst ensuring I maintain a
definite relation to my research question.

The main advantage that led me to choose questionnaires is the flexibility and adaptability a questionnaire provides.

Questionnaires provide great flexibility in the way questions can be formatted. This flexibility means I can design both
open-ended and closed question types, permitting the collection of a range of quantitative and qualitative data.

Open-ended questions provide the respondent the opportunity to respond to a question or prompt openly and freely,
without any guidance or interference from the researcher. Furthermore, the qualitative data collected by open-ended
questions allows for a more exploratory approach to my research topic, as they provide responses with increased
detail.

Closed questions are often easier to respond to for the participant, and for the researcher, the data gathered from
closed-ended questions is easier to collect and interpret. Furthermore, the quantitative data collected by closed
questions are less complicated to present statistically in the form of graphs etc.

Another pivotal advantage that led me to choose questionnaires, was the limited ability for the researcher (myself) to
influence the participants responses.
Questionnaires are completed by the respondent, avoiding researcher bias as the researcher has no opportunity to
interfere. All respondents are given equal opportunity to respond to each question. Respondents are given equal
opportunity to complete the questionnaire in their own time, allowing them the ability to consider their responses in
privacy, at a time that is convenient to their individual needs, thus further increasing the reliability of the data
collected.

My questionnaire will be formatted on an online website platform (Google Forms), thus I will have easy access to a
written record of all responses. Electing to create and share my questionnaire using ‘Google Forms’ also ensures the
data cannot be manipulated by the researcher, as there is an uneditable written record of all responses.

As I am choosing to use Google Forms, I will make my questionnaire anonymous, encouraging respondents to answer
the questions with honesty, as there is no fear of them being ‘exposed’. Making the questionnaire anonymous
increases the reliability of the data collected, as participants are more likely to share their personal experiences and
opinions in greater depth.

Furthermore, choosing Google Forms will allow me to quickly and easily distribute the questionnaire. This will also
allow me to reach a larger sample size of the population in a reasonable timeframe. By collecting responses from a
larger portion of the population, the reliability of the data is increased, and the accuracy of the datas’ representation
and applicability to the entire population is increased, thus, allowing for generalisation.

Primary Research Methodology - Interviews

Definition
8
 An interview is defined as,
“A conversation or discussion between two or more people to collect information or opinions; it is often concerned
with their understanding, knowledge or perception of the facts or circumstances related to the topic of research.”
(Al, 2014, #33)

Describe Method

Interviews, as a primary research methodology, involves the collection of data by engaging interviewees in a structured
manner in order to collect information and insight firsthand.

An interview is structured like a conversation or discussion, where the researcher poses the questions or prompts the
interviewee. The aim of an interview is to gather responses based upon the interviewees opinions, knowledge, views,
experiences, attitudes and perceptions of the topic.

Interviews are a primary research method that utilises verbal and non-verbal forms of communication to obtain
information from the interviewee. Generally, interviews gather qualitative data, as the aim of an interview is usually to
draw data from the interviewees personal opinions and experiences.

For my research, I will be conducting structured interviews.

A structured interview consists of predetermined questions that I will create before I conduct the interviews.

Justify selection of method

Interviews in general posed many distinct advantages that drove my decision-making process.

The main prompt that led to me choosing interviews was the ability to be able to conduct them face-to-face, and the
distinct advantages that come with that.

By conducting the interviews face-to-face, the questions or prompts can be reworded to provide clarification and
ensure the interviewees’ understanding. Furthermore, by conducting the interviews face-to-face, accommodations can
be made to ensure the participant is comfortable, and, individuals’ literacy levels or other potential boundaries that
may arise can be easily accommodated for, providing all interviewees equal opportunities, thus, preventing any
discrimination or ableism.

I chose structured interviews, opposed to unstructured interviews for a few reasons.

Structured interviews will allow me to predetermine the questions and prompts. This is seen as an advantage as the
questions and prompts will remain identical as possible across the interviews. This maintains consistency across the
interviews as all interviewees will be given equal opportunity to respond and share their opinions and experiences, and
a large amount of information can be gathered from multiple interviewees whilst still ensuring the results stay relevant
to the research topic. Therefore, increasing the reliability of the data I will collect.

Furthermore, the structure of the answers collated across the interviews will remain similar, allowing for me to
compare and analyse the results efficiently and accurately.

Additionally, the information and data gathered from the interviews can then be analysed and used to create a more
focused and refined questionnaire.

Secondary Research Methodology - Literature Review

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 Definition

A literature review is defined as,

“A secondary research method involving a search and evaluation of existing knowledge on a particular topic”
(Al, 2014, #107)

Describe Method

‘Literature reviews are a logical and methodical way of organising pre existing bodies of knowledge and research, based
on a specific topic’
(Al, 2014, #107)

Literature reviews are carried out by the researcher, either before they initiate the conduction of their own research,
or after they have conducted and analysed their research.
A literature review involves a few steps.
Initially, information must be identified by searching through a variety of sources and collecting the relevant
information relating to the chosen topic.
Then, summaries of the information that has been gathered are made, noting the most important or relevant words,
phrases and ideas from each source.
Then, each source and its information must be compared and critically analysed, identifying any patterns,
commonalities, or controversial information.
Finally, all information and analysis made must be presented in a logical and organised format.
When conducted before the primary research, they are used to gain an understanding of the posed research topic,
investigate existing trends, identify historical context, and study changes in behaviour or patterns relating to the topic.

Justify selection of method

Literature reviews are renowned for being a versatile secondary research method, meaning that I can conduct an
adequate literature review on my chosen topic, as well as explore the underlying, abstract nuances of the topic.

By carrying out a literature review, I can demonstrate my commitment to my research, as they act as evidence to
support my familiarity with my research topic. Furthermore, carrying out a literature review will improve the quality of
my research, and the accuracy of the analysis that I make as I will have gained an extensive understanding of the
historical context of my topic. They will also provide me with clarity and direction for conducting my own research.

The research I gather through my literature review can be both qualitative and quantitative, providing a more balanced
perspective and representation of relevant data. This allows for easier identification of common themes across related
studies, and overall will assist me in building a framework for the information I am to gather.

Sample Methods
Describing and Justifying the selection of Sampling Methods

Sample Method - Stratified Sample Method

For my interviews, I will be using a stratified sample method to choose the individuals that will be interviewed.

Definition

A stratified sample method is;

“A stratified random sample involves a process in which the population is divided into strata (layers) groups and then
random selection occurs within each strata.”
(Al, 2014, #118)

10
 Describe Method

For my interviews, I will use a stratified sample method. After I complete the questions for the interview, I will collect
all relevant individuals who are interested in participating in my research and willing to be a candidate to be
interviewed. I will then create a strict process I will follow to stratify all the possible interviewees and select the final
group of individuals I will interview.

Justify selection of method

I chose to use a stratified sample method to select the individuals I will interview as;

It allows me to ensure there is a balanced representation of my sample group. I can stratify the candidates too ensure
that all subgroups in the population are represented equally, meaning I will interview and collect data from an equal
number of individuals from both sexes (male and female), and I can equally represent a diverse range of ages within my
sample group. Thus, the data I collect through my interview process will be reliable, allowing for easy and accurate
comparisons to be made across the interviewees as the data collected will be balanced and proportionate to the
general population.

Furthermore, a stratified sample method eliminates the potential for sampling-bias from the researcher (myself),
further increasing the validity, reliability and accuracy of the data to be collected.

Sample Method - Self-Selected Sample Method

For my Questionnaires, I will be using a self-selected sample method to choose the individuals that will participate and
respond to the questionnaire.

Definition

A self-selected sample method is;

“A sample method where members of the sample population volunteer themselves to participate.”

Describe Method

For my questionnaire, I will use a self-selected sample method. After I complete the questionnaire, I will share the link
to the questionnaire publicly and anyone who wants to participate and share their opinions and experiences can
participate in their own time, without feelings of pressure.

Justify selection of method

I chose a self-selected sampling method for my questionnaire because all members of my sample population can
choose if they want to participate and share their experiences and feelings about the topic, which provides many
advantages.

For myself, it requires minimal effort and time as once I create the questionnaire I can share the questionnaire publicly,
and individuals who want to participate can individually make their decision without any influence from myself, thus,
avoiding any feelings of pressure from myself as the researcher.

Furthemore, as participants are given the choice to participate in my research or not, I hope the sample-size I am able
to collect information from will be large and diverse, and, as there is no pressure from the researcher, individuals
answers are anonymous, and there are no time restrictions, the responses gathered from the questionnaire will be
more in depth, insightful and reliable.

11
 Sample Group
Describing and Justifying the selection of the Sample Group

Sample Group - Homosexuals

Definition

A homosexual is defined as,

“A person who is sexually of romantically attracted to people of their own sex”
(Oxford University Press, 2023, Oxford Languages)

Justify selection of method

Homosexual individuals are the main sample group I have selected for my research.
Homosexual individuals where choses as my research topic aims on explicitly exploring the effects homophobia has on
the wellbeing of homosexual individuals. Thus, homosexuals were chosen as the sample group for my research as, to
adequately and accurately explore the impacts of homophobia on the wellbeing of homosexuals, the data collected
from homosexuals will be the most accurate, reliable and valid.

Required Information & Possible Secondary Sources

Possible Secondary Sources of Data

Identifying possible secondary sources of data specific to research topic

Possible Types of Secondary Sources to be Used

Websites Reports Textbooks Books

Biographies Autobiographies Political Commentary Journal Articles

Statistical Reports Statistical Comparisons Poems Systematic Reviews

Interviews Manuscripts Government Websites Articles

Research Articles Support Services Literature Reviews Journal Entries

Possible Relevant Secondary Sources to be Studied and Analysed

Source Name Source Type Link

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2072932/
Prejudice, Social Stress, and Mental Health in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Journal Manuscript
Populations: Conceptual Issues and Research Evidence

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4144327/
Discrimination and Mental Health Among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Adults in the Journal Manuscript
United States

https://www.cdc.gov/msmhealth/stigma-and-
Stigma and Discrimination Government Website discrimination.htm

Impact of discrimination - LGBTIQ+ communities | Beyond

The impact of discrimination Support Website Article Blue

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/
A Systematic Review of the Discrimination Against Sexual and Gender Minority in Research Article 10.1177/0020731419885093
Health Care Settings

https://digitalcommons.wcupa.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?
The Impact of Discrimination Against The LGBTQ Community. The Impact of Article article=1007&context=ramifications

12
Discrimination Against The LGBTQ Community

https://fra.europa.eu/sites/default/files/fra_uploads/397-
Homophobia and Discrimination on Grounds of Sexual Orientation and Gender Research Article FRA_hdgso_report_part2_en.pdf
Identity in the EU Member States:

The impacts of discriminatory experiences on lesbian, gay

The impacts of discriminatory experiences on LGBTQ people in sport Research Article and bisexual people in sport

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Equality |

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Equality Literature Review Australian Human Rights Commission

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40894-019-
LGBTQI+ Youth and Mental Health: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Research Systematic Review 00118-w

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/
Diversity and Inclusion: Impacts on Psychological Wellbeing Among Lesbian, Gay, Review Article fpsyg.2022.726343/full
Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Communities

https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/journals/MurUEJL/
Murdoch University Electronic Journal of Law Journal Entry 1996/22.html

https://www.redalyc.org/journal/1798/179862990004/
Discrimination, Work Stress, and Psychological Well-being in LGBTI Workers in Research Article html/
Spain

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1016/
Reviewing evidence of LGBTQ+ discrimination and exclusion in sport Journal Article j.smr.2020.09.003

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-
LGBTIQ+ people: statistics Statistical Analysis health/statistics/lgbtiq-people-statistics

https://www.americanprogress.org/article/widespread-
Widespread Discrimination Continues to Shape LGBT People’s Lives in Both Subtle Report discrimination-continues-shape-lgbt-peoples-lives-subtle-
and Significant Ways significant-ways/

Required Information to Support Research

Details of the information required to support research

Relevant Information Required to Support Research

Historical Context

- Explore historical developments related to homophobia and discrimination against homosexual individuals
- Investigate evolution of trends and developments

Legal & Policy - Frameworks & Developments

- Investigate past and existing homosexual-related laws and policies (i.e. right to vote, right to marriage)
- Explore how laws and policies have changed and evolved to combat homophobia & include homosexuals

Societal Attitudes & Trends

- Analyse and compare public opinion polls/surveys related too wellbeing of homosexual individuals
- Compare statistics of homsexuals vs heterosexuals

Cultural

- Explore cultural trends & views

Health Statistics

- Analyse existing statistics related to mental health & physical health

- Explore data on depression rates, use of formal support services, anxiety rates, rates of substance abuse etc
- Explore use of formal support systems (ambulances, GPs, mental health services etc)

Educational Statistics

- Investigate education outcomes

- Investigate prevalence of homophobia in educational settings & analyse data of homophobia in educational settings

Employment/Occupation Statistics

- Investigate employment/occupational outcomes

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 - Investigate prevalence of homophobia in occupational settings & analyse data of homophobia in workplace settings
- Explore prevalence of homophobia in different employment industries & settings

Media Representation

- Assess media representation and portrayal of homosexuality

- Investigate the impacts of media representation on societal attitudes, behaviours, views etc

Community & Government Support & Resources

- Identify & research existing support services & resources & their accessibility and availability
- Explore the role and impact of community & government support services & resources in promoting wellbeing

Global Ideas & Perspectives

- Explore perspectives & homophobia rates across different countries

- Compare nations support services, attitudes and experiences

Interrelationships / Intersectionality

- Explore the interrelationships between gender, race, socioeconomic status, educational level, employment, age etc
- Explore how other factors can impact the causes and effects of homophobia/discrimination

Research & Statistic Reviews

- Find reviews that compare statistics and data from multiple studies, countries etc
- Identify trends, patterns and differences in existing research & data

Reports based on Experiences & Advocates

- Explore reports/statements etc from individuals experiences and views

- Identify reliable insights, statistics and sources of relevant information

Case Studies

- Examine realistic examples, case studies etc that illustrate the impact of homophobia on wellbeing

Expected Research Outcomes

Expected Outcomes of Research
Proposing the expected outcomes of the research

Expectations and Hope’s regarding Research Outcomes

From conducting, collating, comparing and analysing the research I aim to gather throughout my IRP, I expect to find that my
hypothesis is accurate.

I expect to find that homophobia significantly impacts multiple aspects of an individual's wellbeing, and that the effects
homophobia has on an individual and their wellbeing will differ extensively across individuals. However, I expect that patterns and
trends will be prominent, being that homophobia predominantly and commonly has negative impacts on psychological health
(mental and emotional health), as well as an individual's social health.

I believe that homophobia will predominantly impact an individual's mental health, leading to increased prevalence of depression,
negative self-images, lowered self-confidence, as well as being a predominant factor in substance abuse amongst homosexual
individuals.

I also expect to find that the vast majority of homosexual individuals will have experienced homophobia or discrimination because
of their sexuality, at least one time within their lifetime. Furthermore, I believe that my questionnaire will prove that over 50% of
heteronormative people will have witnessed homophobia or a sexuality-based act of discrimination at least once, proving the

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 prevalence of homophobia within past and modern society.

Furthermore, I hope to explore and discover the impacts of homophobia on other areas of an individual's life, furthermore
exploring the multi-faceted nature of the impacts homophobia can have on a homosexual individual and their wellbeing.

I hope to explore the changes in laws surrounding homosexuals, such as gay marriage, and how legal policies and laws influence a
homosexuals quality of life and wellbeing. Furthermore, I hope to be able to explore not only the differences in treatment in
government and legal bodies, but also the disparities prevalent in healthcare. I expect that my primary and secondary research will
highlight these disparities, whilst I also hope that my IRP will be able to bring attention and awareness to the inequality in society,
culture, governments, and healthcare.

I also believe that the impacts of homophobia on an individual are both short-term and long-term. I expect my research to highlight
the impacts of direct homophobia, but I also hope that my research will allow me to explore the affects of passive/indirect
homophobia. Thus, I hope to be able to explore the impacts of multiple forms of homophobia and the different natures of change it
causes.

Furthermore, as I believe homophobia will predominantly impact a homosexuals’ love and belonging needs, esteem needs, as well
as their security and safety needs, I hope to be able to explore the differences in mental health related statistics between
homosexual individuals and heterosexual individuals. I also hope to explore studies and information regarding education and
occupation. Overall, I aim to analyse and compare secondary sources of data, predominantly existing statistics to compare
homosexuals and heterosexuals and furthermore, use them to analyse the intersectionality of other influencing characteristics.

Related Terminology

Terminology List
A list of terminology & definitions related to the research & research topic

No. Word Definition

1. Hypothesis A supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for
further investigation.
(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

2. Homosexual A person who is sexually or romantically attracted to people of one's own sex.
(Oxford University Press, 2023, Oxford Languages)

3. Heterosexual A person who is sexually or romantically attracted to only people of one’s opposite sex.
(Oxford University Press, 2023, Oxford Languages)

4. Discrimination Treating a person or particular group of people differently, especially in a worse way from the way in
which you treat other people, because of their race, gender, sexuality, etc.
(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

5. Homophobia Harmful or unfair things a person does based on a fear or dislike of gay people or queer people (= people
who do not fit a society’s traditional ideas about gender or sexuality)
(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

6. Well-being The state of feeling healthy and happy.

(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

7. Psychological Relating to the human mind and feelings.

(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

8. Ethical Issues A subject or problem that people are thinking, relating to beliefs about what is morally right.
(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

9. Disparities A lack of equality or similarity, especially in a way that is not fair.

(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

10. Visibility The degree to which something is seen by the public.

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 (Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

11. Demographic The characteristics of a population that have been categorised by distinct criteria—such as age, gender
and income—as a means to study the attributes of a particular group.
(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

12. Methodology A system of ways of doing, teaching, or studying something.

A set of methods used in a particular area of study or activity.
(Cambridge Dictionary, 2023, Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

13. Questionnaire “A set of formally prepared questions that seek information (statistics) on a person's views, knowledge,
feelings, beliefs and opinions. Questionnaires are completed by the respondent without any input by the
researcher.” (Al, 2014, #82)

14. Interview “A conversation or discussion between two or more people to collect information or opinions; it is often
concerned with their understanding, knowledge or perception of the facts or circumstances related to
the topic of research.” (Al, 2014, #33)

15. Literature Review “A secondary research method involving a search and evaluation of existing knowledge on a particular
topic” (Al, 2014, #107)

Possible Difficulties

Possible Difficulties to be Encountered

Brief outline of the possible difficulties that may be encountered when conducting research

Bias

For my primary research I will conduct, I will use a questionnaire and multiple interviews to collect my data.

For my questionnaire, the main concern relating to bias is researcher bias. To combat this issue, and ensure my data
can remain unbiased, I will use an online formatting (Google Forms), as well as ensuring that the identity of all
individuals who participate and fill out the questionnaire remain entirely anonymous.

Using an online platform, such as google forms, helps reduce the possibility of bias from myself, as all responses are
immediately recorded and are uneditable. This eliminates the opportunity for the research to alter, change, manipulate
or directly edit any of the responses.
Furthermore, platforms such as Google Forms immediately interprets the data and creates graphs based upon the
statistics collated. This eliminates the potential for researcher bias, but also eliminates the potential for human error.

For my interviews, the main concern related to bias is researcher bias. To immediately combat this issue, I will be using
a stratified sampling methodology to elect the interviewees. I will create a strict set of steps I must follow to eliminate
any potential for researcher bias, and also use a random sample method in the end stages to ensure no opportunity for
my personal preferences or biases to influence the individuals to be interviewed.

Bias can manifest in many ways during the conduction of a literature review on my topic.

Researcher bias was deemed as a possible difficulty I may encounter.

Researchers may have pre-existing opinions, views and beliefs surrounding the topic, which can impact their
interpretation and reporting of their research.

Publication bias was also considered as I viewed it a common issue that I was likely to encounter.
Studies with more ‘positive’ results are more likely to be published in comparison to studies with findings that are of a
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 neutral or negative nature.

Cultural bias is also a common issue within literature and studies.

Literature commonly misrepresents the experiences and statistics of minorities, leading to unreliable studies that lack
generalisability.

Sampling bias also poses an issue for my literature review.

Studies may have non-representative samples that can skew the research and overall findings. This limits the studies
accuracy, reliability, validity and generalisability.

To address these issues concerning the many ways bias can pose an issue, I will adopt a logical, systematic and
methodological approach to my literature review process, ensuring critical assessments of the methodological and
contextual aspects of the studies and literary pieces, before including them in my literature review.

Validity & Reliability

For my questionnaire, the main concern relating to the validity and reliability to be collected, is that my chosen
research topic is one that may be sensitive for individuals. This has the potential to compromise the data’s validity and
reliability as respondents may withhold information or opinions, or alter their responses due to emotions and thoughts
such as fear.

To combat this issue, and ensure that respondents can fill out the questionnaire with as much honesty and authenticity
as possible, I will format the questionnaire using an online platform such as Google Forms, which allows me to make
the questionnaire anonymous.
Making my questionnaire anonymous combats this issue as anonymity increases the chance that respondents will
respond truthfully and fearlessly, as their responses cannot be traced back to them.
Thus, decreasing any potential for the data collected to be unreliable or invalid.

For my interviews, the main difficulty I may encounter that will potentially impact the reliability and validity of the
responses and data I will gather, is unequal and unrealistic representation of my sample group.

If I interview only females, or only males, then the data collected via my interviews will not be an accurate or reliable
representation of the wider population. Similarly, I must ensure I interview individuals from a range of age groups, as
interviewing individuals all of the same/similar age, will decrease the generalisability of my data, and impact the
reliability and validity of the responses.

To combat this, I will use a stratified sample method to elect the interviewees. This allows me to unbiasedly elect an
equal number of individuals from both sex’s, and ensure that an equal number of individuals from each age bracket will
be selected, using a logical and reliable sampling methodology.
This will not only increase the validity of my data, but also increase the generalizability, accuracy and reliability of the
data collected through the interviews.

Many possible difficulties I may encounter that will affect the validity and reliability of my literature review where
acknowledged and considered.

Measurement Validity. Different studies may use ways to assess the effects of homophobia on wellbeing, making it
increasingly difficult to accurately compare the data from multiple secondary sources.

Sampling Validity. The generalisability of the results from multiple studies may be compromised or deemed unreliable
and invalid as the samples used for studies may not accurately represent the broader population. Specific minorities
within the sample group may not be included or represented, impacting the accuracy and reliability of the data.
Additionally, different studies will use different samples of the population, thus, making accurate and reliable
comparisons becomes difficult as the validity of studies data may be compromised.

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 Reliability of Data Sources. Self-reported and/or self-published studies and literature may be less accurate, and the
accuracy across multiple sources will vary. Furthermore, published studies may contain skewed information and/or
results to appeal to a wider audience, or my literature review may be unreliable if only studies with statistically
significant outcomes are published and included, leading to an overestimation of the true impacts homophobia has on
wellbeing, or leading to false or inaccurate results and statistics.

Literature Review Reliability. The reliability and validity of my literature review may be compromised if I do not collate
my data from secondary sources using a systematic and in depth search strategy. Limiting my search to a specific
database or specific keywords limits the information to be included, affecting the comprehensiveness of my literature
review, and leaving the opportunity for vital information to be missed and not represented.

In order to address these issues regarding the validity and reliability of my literature review, a comprehensive and
systematic approach must be adopted throughout the process of conducting my literature review. I must critically and
methodologically evaluate the studies, acknowledge any potential limitations, and ensure I extensively examine the
reliability of my secondary sources, and the validity of their data and statistics.

Ethical Issues

For my questionnaires, many possible problems that I may encounter were acknowledged, and a plan of approach for
each problem was created in order to reduce any ethical issues.

Due to the sensitive nature of my topic, participants may feel pressured to fill out the questionnaire, or may fear they
will experience negative repercussions if they do not participate.
To combat this, the questionnaire will open with a clear passage explaining the purpose of my research, and ensure
that all participants’ identities will remain completely anonymous and confidential. I will also ensure that participation
is completely voluntary.
This addresses the ethical issue of informed consent, as well as confidentiality and anonymity.

Furthermore, due to the sensitive nature of my topic, some questions may evoke distressing memories or emotions,
potentially causing psychological harm.
To combat this, I will ensure I word all questions as sensitively as possible to avoid the reinforcement of harmful
stigmas or stereotypes, I will provide the option for questions to be skipped, and I will also provide links to support
services and resources at the end of the questionnaire.

Therefore, avoiding stigmatisation by approaching the topic with cultural and psychological sensitivity, thus,
combatting any potential for harm or distress to be caused.

The ethical concerns surrounding the interviews pose similar to those of my questionnaire.

To avoid any pressure the interviewees may feel to share personal experiences and opinions surrounding my topic, I
will ensure that I provide all necessary information surrounding my topic and the purpose of my research. I will ensure
that I gain clear, written consent from each interviewee before the date and time of each interview, and I will ensure I
answer any and all questions individuals may have to ensure they feel supported and comfortable, and respect any
potential wishes for their identity to be kept confidential.
Therefore, addressing the ethical issues of informed consent, and privacy and confidentiality.

Another major ethical issue to be concerned about is the chance of negative emotional impacts or re-traumatisation.
Discussing personal experiences of homophobia and sexuality-based discrimination may be a sensitive topic that
evokes strong and potentially distressing emotions and memories.
To combat this, I will approach each interview and question with calmness and acknowledgement of the potential
sensitivity of the topic, being prepared to provide any emotional support or resources. Furthermore, to prioritise the
wellbeing of each interviewee, I will make sure to preface that they can skip any question, specifically specifying and
encouraging that there is no pressure to respond to any sensitive or uncomfortable questions.

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 When conducting a literature review on my topic, a range of ethical issues may be encountered.

Ethically questionable studies pose concern due to unethical practices such as harm, discrimination, manipulation, lack
of informed consent, or biassed research methodologies and practices.
Considering this, I will critically evaluate the ethical standards of the study before choosing to include them in my
literature review, prioritising research that adheres to ethical guidelines and standards and being transparent about
any limitations I may encounter, or concerns I have regarding the ethics of a study.

Perpetuating harmful stereotypes, as well as concerns around cultural sensitivity and context of literature is also a
prominent ethical issue I must consider for my literature review.
Secondary sources may not adequately consider the sensitivity of the topic, or the cultural context in which the studies
were conducted. This can lead to the reinforcement of harmful stereotypes or discriminatory beliefs, as well as leading
to unreliable data that lacks generalisability.
Ethically considering this, I will critically examine and analyse the studies and literary pieces before including them in
my literature review, acknowledging the harm stereotypes and discriminatory behaviours can cause, and discussing
cultural variations to avoid generalisations that perpetuate homophobic and discriminatory behaviours.

For both my primary and secondary research, the ethical issue of the dissemination of results is prominent.
Misrepresentation, exaggeration or romanticisation of participants' experiences, specifically when reporting and
analysing the results and findings of the research is a major ethical issue as it can lead to the perpetuation of
stereotypes and negative stigmas surrounding homosexuals.
To combat this, I will use my research appropriately, and prioritise an accurate representation and analysis. I will also
seek a range of unbiased feedback to ensure a respectful, yet accurate report.

Timeline

Research Timeline
A realistic timeline of research -> including actions & goals needed to complete research

Timeline of Main Goals

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Detailed Timeline of Progress, Goals and Timeframes for Completion

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