Introduction

Abstract

This book is premised upon two assumptions. The first is that lesbians and gay men constitute two separate but linked, oppressed groups; the second, that it is possible for social work to deliver a competent non-oppressive practice to individuals and communities within those groups. The oppression of lesbians and gay men is made concrete through discriminatory legislation that impacts on them directly, and by individual, group and institutional prejudice against them and physical assault. The social control of lesbians and gay men is a powerful external force affecting individuals’ life chances and potential, and equally importantly impacts on individuals’ sense of themselves in relation to others and society. Lesbians and gay men can identify with or internalise prejudicial ideas about homosexuality, which has a significant affect on how they live their lives, how they relate to others and how they perceive themselves. The majority of lesbians and gay men find external and internal processes and resources to manage this oppression, but for some this is not the case. Social work, by its unique contribution of focusing on the individual and the social, can make a significant contribution by facilitating the development and utilisation of such internal and external processes and resources, to enable these to develop where they either did not exist or were lying dormant.