Discussion Questions

  1. While today it may seem strange that homosexuality was once classified as mental illness, it was only taken out of the DSM in 1973. This means that many Americans grew up with the idea that homosexuality was a mental illness. What do you think is the continuing impact of that idea in our culture today?
  2. Have you ever been in an emergency situation that led to collective behavior? Did you see evidence of the emergent norm theory? Describe the collective behaviors you witnessed.
  3. What would it take for you to join a social movement? List social issues you would be willing to march for.
  4. How do you think HIV/AIDS might have changed the Gay Rights Movement?
  5. Discuss the history of the feminist movement in the United States. How are modern-day feminists likely to use different strategies than previous generations?