Discrimination and violence against lesbian, gay and bisexual young people in Chile

Abstract

Background: Discrimination is a practice that implies unequal treatment towards another person, who becomes a victim, which has characteristics that make her different from other people, from which she is impaired, which deepens situations of inequality and marginalization. Objective: Investigate and analyze the types of violence and discrimination to which lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) youth in Chile are exposed. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional and analytical study. In a sample of 8,312 young people between 15 and 24 years old of both sexes. Selected variables are analyzed according to sexual orientation. Results: The ratio between young people who are discriminated versus not discriminated against is higher in LGB youth compared to heterosexual youth in the following situations: Due to their sexual orientation it is 39.69 times more (OR: 39.69; CI: 95 %: 21.65–72.79), “In some conflict situation with a family member” 2.18 times more (OR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.43-3.33), “In some situation of conflict with a friend or acquaintance ”1.50 times more (OR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.08-2.09),“ In the workplace ”2.32 times more (OR: 2 , 32; 95% CI: 1.26-4.26), “With a stranger in a public place” 1.66 times more (OR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.02-2.70). Conclusions: Young lesbians, gays and bisexuals are victims of discrimination and physical and psychological violence in a greater proportion than heterosexual young people both in the family, school and work contexts.