Gay, Lesbian, and Heterosexual Teachers. An Investigation of Acceptance of Self, Acceptance of Others, Affectional and Lifestyle Orientation

This empirical study describes the relationship between discrimination against gay teachers, the way teachers manage their identity, and their self-esteem, including acceptance of self and acceptance of others. It describes the need for this research in its historical context, reviews the related literature, presents the methodology and findings, and recommendations for future research. It documents the lack of substantive differences in personality characteristics, and offers useful data that can foster insight and knowledge too often missing in emotionally-charged debates about gays in the professions.