Homophobic language among young children is a growing concern, with new research revealing that three-quarters of nine- to 11-year-olds have heard it being used. A survey conducted by charity Just Like Us found that 78% of primary school children and 80% of secondary school pupils reported hearing homophobic language.
Some primary school children mentioned social media platform TikTok as a common place where they heard the word “gay” being used as a derogatory insult. For instance, a viral trend on TikTok called ‘English or Spanish?’ involves creators stopping random people and telling them, “Whoever moves first is gay.” This trend has garnered millions of likes on the app and has influenced children to use the word “gay” in a negative manner.
Parents like Charlie from Hertfordshire have expressed concern about this trend, noting that it has become popular for children to use the word “gay” as an insult or joke. Charlie has had conversations with her sons about why such games and trends are hurtful and inappropriate. Her 11-year-old son, Reggie, also shared an experience where classmates made derogatory remarks about a boy in his class who liked pink things. Reggie stood up against this behavior, emphasizing that everyone should be free to like what they want without facing discrimination.
Similarly, LGBTQ+ parent Matt shared how his nine-year-old son Jacob felt uncomfortable participating in a TikTok game where being called “gay” was used as a punishment for getting answers wrong. Jacob, who has foster carers who are gay, stood up for himself and his family, highlighting that there is nothing wrong with being gay and that using it as an insult is hurtful and offensive.
Laura Mackay, CEO of Just Like Us, stressed that homophobic language should never be brushed off as a joke, as it can have serious consequences on the self-esteem and well-being of LGBTQ+ young people. She expressed concern about the rise of games on platforms like TikTok that use “gay” as a derogatory term, emphasizing the need to address and combat such behavior.
While platforms like TikTok have community guidelines against hate speech, there is still a need for greater awareness and education to prevent the normalization of homophobic language among children. Parents, educators, and society at large play a crucial role in promoting acceptance, respect, and understanding towards individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. By addressing these issues early on, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for young people to thrive.