Stigmatisation of same-sex relationships by psychologist

This week, the website Sfera.az published an interview with psychologist Ulkar Maharramova, claiming that same-sex relationships among young people in Azerbaijan are “increasing.”

In the article, queer identities were presented as a “choice” supposedly shaped by “growing support and influence among youth,” and even linked to “psychological void” and “pathological aspects.”

Psychologist Ulkar Maharramova stated:

“In my practice, I often see that young people who tend towards such ideas are those who do not feel valued in their families, are not listened to, and experience psychological void. Since they find more understanding and support on social networks, they feel safer there. This plays an important role in directing their choices in that direction.”

Although the article admits that social networks allow young people to express themselves more openly, the overall framing reinforces stereotypes that stigmatize the LGBTQ+ community and ignores the rights of LGBTQ+s, as well as the discrimination, invisibility, and social stigma they face.

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