Psychology and Sexual Orientation

In recent years, numerous events have drawn attention to the place of gay, lesbian and bisexual people in society. Consider the litany: electoral initiatives to restrict "gay-rights; " contentious discussions about accepting gays in the military; incidents of appalling violence against lesbian, bisexual and gay individuals; court cases where the parental rights of lesbians and gays have been contested. "Psychology and Sexual Orientation" strives to "come to terms" with lesbian, gay and bisexual life and with the controversial scientific and sociocultural theories and arguments on the origin and meaning of homosexuality and queer life in the US. Janis Bohan disrupts conventional psychological perspectives on queer life and identity and animates the on-going debate (still fresh among psychologists) between essentialism and constructionism. Bohan discusses the meaning of sexual orientation; lesbian, gay and bisexual identity development and stigma management; diversity in experiences; partners and parenting; and lesbian, gay and bisexual communities. Writing in a language and style that will appeal to both the professional and lay readers, Bohan is an essential voice in the ongoing debate on the construction of sexual orientation and identity.