The present work is an attempt to investigate the causes that lead to homophobic behaviors and the ways in which the subjects manage their stigmatized identity.
In particular, it focuses on the relationship between homophobia and gender performances, while also examining the ways in which individuals claim their homosexual desire as part of their identity.
The survey follows the narratives of ten homosexual men and women in Athens, in which they describe the homophobic experiences they have had during their lives so far.
Key findings suggest that homophobic behavior punishes those who are not responding to established gender standards while simultaneously reinforcing the accepted gender performances. Homosexual identity is stigmatized because it threatens established heterosexuality and gender limits.