The Hidden Harm Caused by Early Exposure to Prejudice

Key points

Early childhood experiences form core beliefs that can influence identity before self-awareness develops.

Preventing homophobia requires conscious self-reflection and affirming support for LGBTQ youth.

Internalized homophobia begins early, shaping self-image before individuals fully understand themselves.

Asbestos is dangerous. You can’t see it, taste it, or smell it, but even the smallest exposure can have devastating effects decades later. Experts agree there are no safe levels of exposure, and the damage often isn’t visible until much later.

I spent a month on jury duty for a case involving a woman who developed a rare cancer called mesothelioma. Her lawyers argued she was exposed to asbestos between the ages of three and 12 through a product she used every day. She was