Anything Taboo Anymore?

Why Homosexuality is Such a Hot Gossip Topic

By
Relationship Advice Expert April Masini

I've had a few conversations lately that have left me shaking my head (and sometimes shaking mad). I'm gay, out and comfortable with my sexuality. However, I don't consider sex an acceptable topic of conversation unless I am among very close friends. For some reason, once I mention my boyfriend, mere acquaintances start asking me when I came out, what it was like, even if I've ever been with women!

On one hand, I don't mind clearing up misconceptions about homosexuality but on the other -- I would never ask anyone these questions! They're just out of line, like asking someone their income or how much they weigh. Why are people so interested in this part of my life?

Sincerely,

Fed Up

Dear Fed Up,

Anything that has to do with sexuality is a hot topic in America. That's why people are so curious and interested in whether or not someone is gay. They wonder about the sex that gay people are having, and want to know more about it because they are interested. It's actually a healthy interest, but lots of people are too shy or embarrassed to ask, so they rely on gossip to satiate their need to know.

Homosexuality is not a new lifestyle or way of expressing sexuality or love, but for many people in America, it remains new. As hard as that may be to accept, it's true. Lots of people in provincial areas don't know gay people or don't want to admit they know gay people because they are uncomfortable with differences. Gossip gives them an outlet to talk about and hear about homosexuality without having to confront it in their own lives and neighborhoods.

When people start gossiping, it's really just a cry for information. Rather than treat the gossip as puerile, taking the high road, and educating audiences or neighbors about homosexuality will eventually leave the gossipers audience-less.

April Masini -- nicknamed "the new millennium's Dear Abby" by the media, is author of the best-selling books Date Out Of Your League and Think & Date Like A Man, the two (just released) step-by-step dating and relationship manuals, Ideas for a Fun Date and Romantic Date Ideas, and the critically acclaimed dating and relationship online magazine www.AskApril.com.

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