Nearly 40% of Americans View Homosexuality as Morally Unacceptable

A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center reveals that nearly four in ten Americans, specifically 39 percent, consider homosexuality to be "morally unacceptable." This finding reflects a persistent division in American society regarding LGBTQ+ issues, despite increasing visibility and advocacy for equal rights. The survey, which included responses from 25 countries, indicates that attitudes toward homosexuality in the U.S. remain less favorable compared to many Western nations.

"Homosexuality is morally wrong," say nearly 40 percent of Americans. New research shows how divided society still isThe Advocate

The survey highlights significant demographic variations in attitudes toward homosexuality. Among respondents over the age of 40, 43 percent deemed homosexuality immoral, while only 33 percent of those aged 18 to 39 shared this view. Gender differences are also notable, with women generally holding more favorable views than men. Educational attainment plays a role as well; 43 percent of respondents without a high school diploma viewed homosexuality as immoral, compared to 35 percent of those with a high school education. Religious beliefs further influence perceptions, as 58 percent of daily prayer participants considered homosexuality morally wrong, in contrast to 24 percent of those who pray less frequently.

The Advocate"Homosexuality is morally wrong," say nearly 40 percent of Americans. New research shows how divided society still is

In a broader context, the survey indicates that the U.S. ranks lower in favorable views of homosexuality compared to several countries, including Sweden, Germany, and Canada, where acceptance rates exceed 90 percent. Conversely, Nigeria reported the highest opposition, with 96 percent of respondents labeling homosexuality as morally wrong. Other countries with notable rejection rates include Israel (47 percent) and Hungary (34 percent).

The Advocate

The findings come amid ongoing debates about the status of LGBTQ+ individuals in the U.S. A separate YouGov poll indicated a sharp division among Americans regarding whether discrimination against LGBTQ+ people remains a serious issue. While some perceive improvements, others cite an increase in hate incidents and political disputes surrounding queer rights. Notably, GLAAD reported that June 2025 was one of the most dangerous months for the LGBTQ+ community in recent history, with 268 anti-LGBTQ+ incidents recorded.

"Homosexuality is morally wrong," say nearly 40 percent of Americans. New research shows how divided society still is

Despite a gradual increase in societal acceptance over the years—rising from 49 percent acceptance in 2007 to 72 percent in 2019—significant opposition to homosexuality persists in the United States. The Pew Research Center's findings underscore the complexities of public opinion on LGBTQ+ issues, revealing a society still grappling with moral and ethical questions surrounding homosexuality.

The Advocate

• “Nearly four in ten Americans view homosexuality as “morally unacceptable,” according to a survey released last week by the Pew Research Center .” — Pew Research Center

The Advocate