Much research has compared lesbians and gay men to heterosexuals with the consistent finding that both groups score in the normal range on psychological tests. As the result of these findings the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from the official manual that lists all psychiatric disorders in 1973. Two years later the American Psychological Association passed a resolution supporting this position. For example, research shows that many gay men and lesbians feel great fear and anxiety about possible firing or harassment if their sexual orientation were disclosed at their work place. In sum, the characterization of homosexuals as psychologically abnormal is inaccurate, therefore calling into question policy decisions based on this belief.
Employment discrimination based on sexual orientation violates the central principle of fairness.
The principle of fairness for lesbian and gay individuals in the work place is seriously compromised due to the employment discrimination they experience, including being denied a job, fired, denied promotion or privileges, and harassment. Some employers openly admit they would discriminate against a homosexual employee. Employment discrimination may also be evident in earnings. In sum, research shows that employment discrimination based on sexual orientation is far from uncommon, suggesting a great need for policies such as ENDA to protect against such work place discrimination. Ending employment discrimination is good social and business policy.