The prehomosexual male child in three societies: the United States, Guatemala, Brazil

Arch Sex Behav. 1980 Apr;9(2):87-99. doi: 10.1007/BF01542261.

Abstract

The question raised by this article is: do the several behavioral indicators of male homosexuality, which emerge in childhood, appear cross-culturally, or are they limited to American society? These indicators are interest in toys of the opposite sex, cross-dressing, preference for girls' games and activities, preference for the company of women, being regarded as a sissy, and preference for boys in childhood sex play. Data on indicators were obtained from male homosexuals in three societies--the United States, Guatemala, and Brazil--and compared with responses of heterosexuals. It is concluded that the behavioral indicators do occur in these three societies and occur at about the same rate.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Brazil
  • Child
  • Child Behavior*
  • Cross-Cultural Comparison*
  • Guatemala
  • Homosexuality*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychosexual Development*
  • United States