Transsexualism is not the same as homosexuality. Some may request reassignment surgery while others, who do not experience the need for sex-change, simply live as members of the opposite sex. It is important not to confuse homosexuality and lesbianism with transsexualism. Gay and lesbian people feel comfortable with their biological identities and do not usually want to become the other sex. A transvestite is a man or woman who on occasion will wear articles of clothing commonly associated with the opposite sex.
Some people believe that gay men are pedophiles.
Sexual orientation has nothing to do with paedophilia. A discussion of homosexuality and lesbianism must be placed in the context of gender identity development. Sexual orientation cannot be understood, nor can biases and homophobic attitudes be eliminated, without some understanding of how sexuality is constructed within our culture and how sexuality and preference are related to ourselves as male and female. While sexual orientation is one component of gender identity development, gender identity and cultural prescriptions against any behaviour deemed inconsistent with gender role behaviour are at the core of homophobic beliefs and attitudes. To eliminate fears and to foster tolerance of difference, a person must understand the source of beliefs and attitudes regarding masculinity, femininity and sexuality.