Heteronormativity means seeing heterosexuals as the ideal, social norm.

People who represent the principles of heteronormativity see heterosexuals as the only justifiable social norm for couples. This is a very traditional understanding of roles, in the context of which only men are allowed to enter into a relationship with women or women with men.

Another component of heteronormativity is that the innate gender is also the "correct" one. Accordingly, those affected also oppose interventions such as gender reassignment.

What may "only" sound like an outdated worldview at first can have profound consequences in the second step. Many people who represent heteronormativity, for example, do not shy away from discriminating against homosexuals, transgenders and co. Depending on the individual character, said discrimination can be expressed in a particularly active, sometimes also in a passive way. come.

Heteronormativity also means opposing the equality of gays and lesbians or the LGBTQ community. In this case, it does not correspond to the general world view that "rainbow families" are allowed to adopt or marry children.

The consequences of living heteronormativity can be quite drastic. Those who experience this attitude to life as gay on their own body often feel restricted and not accepted as a person. Depending on the relationship of the persons concerned to the person affected, it may even be necessary to seek psychological help.

By the way: heteronormativity can also be instilled. If children are taught by their parents that a certain constellation is simply not "normal", they quickly adopt this opinion without questioning it - at least up to a certain age.