Understanding Lesbian Relationships

by society's need to promote the family. This question is addressed in other chapters in this volume. Here 1 will note only that the cost in human suffering and productivity should be entered into the equation; equal treatment would only result in more social cohesion as sources of alienation are removed. The fuller participation of gay citizens in the political, economic, and social life of the nation is a benefit not to be ignored. Such participation should, of course, include attempts to portray more accurate images of gay relationships in the media. These considerations are suggestive rather than exhaustive. They may seem unrealistically optimistic in a period of social retrenchment. But any movement for social justice must be persistent despite changes in political or > social currents. Gay male relationships are in a period of flux due to the changes in the sexual attitudes of many Americans. Despite the lack of full opportunity, there has never been as favorable a dimate in America for the growth of a strong, positive, and healthy gay identity. The continuance of this climate is essential if society wants the maximum possible from its gay citizens. M. E. Ho tved t . Homosexua l i t y : S o c i a l , P s y c h o l o g i c a l and B i o l o g i c a l I s s u e s . B e v e r l y H i l l s , CA: Sage, 1982.