When a homosexual grows up they are constantly reminded that they can't be themselves, but what society wants them to be. Religion also plays a part in homophobia. They also state that homosexuals are evil and not worthy to live. Those religious individuals in turn pass on that message to their children, causing them to believe homosexuality is wrong, different, and unexpected. Individuals who believe strongly in their religion might believe they are doing God a favor by punishing those who go against his word.
Some offenders use their religion as an excuse for their hate.
Although perpetrators are mostly under the age of 25, they usually do not belong to a hate group, therefore making it hard to identify the perpetrators. Anti-gay violence is more times than not unplanned, causing the gay or lesbian individual to live in constant fear. In some states it is not clearly stated what a hate crime against a homosexual is. The criminal justice system also allows leniency on these offenders. Some judges have been known to allow leniency on these particular offenders on the assumption that these kids who should not be burdened by a criminal record.