heterosexist

a heterosexist subscribes to the "system that privileges heterosexuals and discriminates directly or indirectly against homosexuals; heterosexism often operates by a web of attitudes and systems that make opposite-sex arrangements accepted as universal, natural, and inevitable, thus appearing less offensive than overt homophobic prejudice" (Jan Clausen, Beyond Gay or Straight). The attitude that heterosexuality is the sole valid, standard, or normal sexual orientation is sometimes also called heteronormativity. Heterosexism exists when people act as if everyone is heterosexual; for example, thinking that a "couple" is always a she and a he, forgetting that Valentine's Day is for all couples, not just opposite-sex ones, assuming that only married couples celebrate anniversaries. To include everyone in general statements, remember that same-sex couples also consist of husbands and/or wives, that "couples therapy" is broader than "marriage counseling," and "parents" or "the adults" at a child's house will cover everyone. See also general population, homophobia.