To Assess the Knowledge, Attitude, And Beliefs Towards the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Community Among Students of Various Professional Backgrounds in Vijayapura

Abstract

Introduction: In the 21st century, social attitudes toward gender, sexuality, and identity are evolving. However, despite constitutional provisions for equality, discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community persists in various forms across Indian society. The discourse surrounding LGBT+ rights and acceptance is dynamic, reflecting ongoing debates and discussions about equality, human rights, and social justice. The current study focuses on understanding heterosexual perceptions of homosexuality and cultural attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community, aiming to address the limited research on this sensitive topic in India, particularly in Northern Karnataka. By understanding these perspectives, the study seeks to contribute to fostering a more supportive and accepting environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Objectives • To study the knowledge, attitude, and beliefs of students toward the LGBT community. • Compare and Correlate the Knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of students with respect to social-demographic variables and their professional background. Materials & Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in the colleges of Vijayapura among students aged above 18 years. All participants who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. In-person interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires to collect socio-demographic data and information on cultural practices. Additionally, Riddles and CSUN scales were utilized to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs (KAB) of the respondents regarding the LGBTI community. Statistical Analysis: The data was entered into an Excel spreadsheet and then analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and diagrams were employed to analyze the data. The chi-square test was utilized to examine the statistical associations between the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs (KAB) and other independent variables. Results: Out of 984 study participants, a notable proportion showed poor knowledge (36.4%), exhibited poor attitudes (3.5%), and held poor beliefs (35.9%). Conversely, positive outcomes were observed across various domains, with 24.6% exhibiting good knowledge, 59.7% showing good attitudes, and 36.0% holding good beliefs. The study revealed that good knowledge often aligns with positive beliefs in 42.7% of cases. Negative attitudes correlate with poor beliefs in 4.8% of instances, while positive attitudes frequently coincide with good beliefs in 88.1% of RespondentsConclusion: Our study underscores the necessity of incorporating LGBT-related topics into college curricula and providing training for educators and staff. These steps are crucial for fostering inclusivity and support for LGBT individuals within educational institutions. Additionally, launching targeted educational campaigns is essential for increasing understanding and acceptance of sexual orientation and gender identity diversity.