Attitudes toward homosexuality among medical, nursing, and paramedical staff in a teaching institution in India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Homosexuality, once thought as a disorder, is now acknowledged as a natural facet of human sexuality. Despite legal advancements, individuals with same-sex orientation face pervasive stigma, particularly in healthcare settings, impacting their mental and physical well-being. Aim: To assess the attitude towards homosexuality among medical, nursing, and paramedical staff Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff in a teaching institution in Northern India. Purposive sampling was done and all consenting participants were included in the study. Socio-demographic details were collected using a structured questionnaire. Attitude towards homosexuality was assessed using the Homosexuality Attitude Scale (HAS). Results: A total of 83 doctors, 211 nursing staff, and 56 paramedical staff were interviewed for the study. Results showed that medical staff had higher scores on HAS (mean score 79.23 ± 15.32) indicating the most favorable attitudes, followed by nursing staff (mean score 79.12 ± 10.92) and then paramedical staff (mean score 74.80 ± 18.44). Younger (<40 years), female, and single healthcare staff held more positive attitudes. Religious affiliation also influenced attitudes, with minority religions showing higher acceptance. However, no significant differences were found based on education or income (P value 0.83 and 0.08, respectively). Conclusion: This study helps to understand the prevailing attitudes towards homosexuality among healthcare staff. To ensure unbiased clinical care towards people with homosexuality, it is recommended to have regular awareness sessions and training programs for the workforce of the institute involved in patient care.

Keywords

• attitude
• homosexuality
• medical
• nursing
• paramedical
• stigma