Homophobic bullying

Homophobic or transphobic bullying, like all bullying comes in a variety of forms.

There are three main types...

Physical

Punching, kicking, slapping, intimidating, fighting, scrapping, tripping, spitting, throwing things at someone because you think they are gay, lesbian, or trans.

Non-Physical

spreading rumours, mocking, abusing, swearing, laughing, blackmail, glaring, pulling the finger, snobbing, leaving people out, or blocking them on Facebook because you don't think they look, act, dress, or express themselves the way you think they should.

Homophobic Language

Our use of homophobic language is a big part of the high level of cultural homophobia that exists in New Zealand. It involves the use of words like ‘homo’ ‘faggot’ ‘lezzie’ and ‘poofter’ to mock or put-down anyone no matter what the reason.

This includes in texts, notes, emails, plus anything on Facebook or elsewhere online. It also includes using ‘gay’ to refer to something that is dumb or naff. Using this language is a form of bullying, against a whole group in society. It helps reinforce a homophobic atmosphere by linking a whole group of people with things that are undesirable.