Perspective Differences On Politics and Social Policy Between Older and Younger LGBT Adults

Background and Purpose: A dearth of scholarly literature exists on older adult issues in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) communities, in part because of historical reticence about their open, sexual orientation (LGBT Movement Advancement Project, 2010). The LGBT older adult population in the U.S., estimated at least 1.5 million, maintain concerns over social regulations and policy changes at state and national levels (National Gay & Lesbian Task Force, 2010). Fewer studies exist specific to social policy perspectives among older LGBT adults. The purpose of this study was to redress this gap in LGBT research. Specifically, we examined aggregate differences between older and younger LGBT cohorts regarding opinions on politics and social policies appropriate to LGBT community.

Methods: This study utilized a cross-sectional, survey design with convenience and snowball sampling. We recruited participants through fliers and outreach at LGBT-friendly outlets (e.g., churches, coffee shops, nightclubs, etc.), and by word of mouth via email lists and informal networks. Self-identified LGBT adults in a Gulf Coast metropolitan area completed a survey capturing demographics and quality-of-life domains. This study focused on attitudes toward political involvement, government support, and social policy (including same-sex marriage, parenting). Board members of a local LGBT advocacy organization identified the survey items. The sample comprised 349 eligible surveys.

Results: The average sample age was 39; one-quarter qualified as older adult (50 years or older). Other demographics included: 63% male; 58% identified as gay, 23% lesbian; 88% White, 6% African American; 95% with at least some college experience; 66% employed full-time; almost 50% in a partnership or marriage; and 21% with at least one child. Over half (56%) reported party affiliation as Democrat, 16% Republican. Significant differences (p < .05) between age cohorts were noted on some political/social policy issues. The older cohort reported higher participation in presidential, state and local elections (Χ² = 8.66, 4.10, 12.28, respectively). Older cohort scored higher on voting strictly on political party (t = 1.93), but no cohort difference on voting based strictly on candidate. The older cohort scored lower on importance of same-sex marriage legality (t = 1.92). We observed no significance difference between cohorts on the following perceptions: governmental support of LGBT community; awareness of political issues affecting LGBT individuals; primary benefit of marriage as legal recognition; and protection and benefits of same-sex civil unions and marriage.

Conclusion and Implications: Aggregate responses on many issues of politics and social policy did not differ significantly by age cohort (older vs. younger). Yet, the cohorts diverged on several issues germane to political involvement, as LGBT older adults reported higher voter participation and focus on party affiliation. Additionally, older adults were less likely to deem legality of same-sex marriage as important. These results highlight generational disparity of opinion on current political and social issues relevant to LGBT persons. Such disparity urges social work researchers, practitioners, and educators to remain conscientious of intra-cultural sensitivity among this population, inclusive of age-related perspectives.