Understanding and Challenging Stigma toward ... - Pact Cambodia

Annex A:2
Men who Have Sex with Men
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there differences among MSM?
Yes. MSM are individuals who look and behave in different ways, just like heterosexuals.
Some MSM wear their hair longer and dress in a feminine way, while others may have
short hair and dress and act like other straight men. In some cases, MSM are married
and have families or act one way in public and another way in private. Many MSM dress
and act no differently from men who do not have sex with men. It often is impossible to
tell whether someone is an MSM just by the way they look and behave.
Are long hair MSM sick and in need of counseling?
Long hair MSM are healthy and productive members of society. They simply identify
much more with the gender opposite to their biological sex. Their gender identity is
not causing any harm to themselves or others. If an MSM long hair wants to undergo
a transition from his biological sex to his desired sex by taking hormones and/or an
operation, counseling is highly recommended to guide him through the difficult transition
process.
Do MSM have long-lasting relationships?
Many people think that MSM are only interested in sex, that their relationships are
shallow and only based on physical attraction, not love. But in fact MSM are equally
capable of deep, long-term, loving relationships as non-MSM are with women. Some
may have lots of sexual partners and some may have only a single, long-term partner.
Because of the stigma toward MSM, these partnerships are frequently invisible. Same-sex
marriages are not recognized in Cambodia.
Should MSM be banned from certain jobs?
No. Men who have sex with men are no different from other men in terms of job
performance. Unfortunately, some people believe that MSM should not be allowed to
become teachers or health workers, based on the view that MSM are sexually irresponsible,
not to be trusted and abuse children. This is a myth. In fact, it is well documented that
the majority of those who molest or abuse children are heterosexual men.
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