Fragile Heterosexuality: A Cross-cultural Study Between Germany and Italy

Abstract Prior research in the UK and USA found that heterosexual identity was perceived as more easily compromised than gay identity: a finding dubbed “Fragile Heterosexuality” effect. However, there is yet no evidence this effect occurs outside UK. With representative samples from Germany ( N = 1236) Italy 1249), we investigated fragile heterosexuality using participants’ agreement with gender-neutral statements about fragility of sexual orientation others. We supporting both countries. also six possible moderators Higher estimates gay/lesbian population weakened effect, higher levels anti-gay prejudice strengthened Contact (quantity/quality), right wing authoritarianism, social dominance did not moderate These findings contribute to previous literature by highlight appears across countries diverse LGBTQ friendliness languages, suggest plausible explanations for