Stabilization or Backlash? Exploring Shifting Social Attitudes Toward Sexual Diversity in Spain (1980–2022)

This descriptive study analyses the evolution of attitudes toward sexual diversity in Spain from the democratic transition to the present. Drawing on data from the European Values Study and an original survey, we offer a longitudinal analysis spanning over 40 years (1980–2022), tracing changes in perceptions of homosexuality across various segments of the Spanish population. While a steady positive trend is observed since the 1980s, we identify a stagnation beginning in 2018, along with regressions in certain sociodemographic groups, such as men, middle-aged individuals, those with lower educational attainment, and those who identify ideologically with the center-left. Moreover, our findings reveal significant current disparities—particularly between men and women on the political right, and across educational levels within the center-left. In line with the theoretical framework presented, the results suggest that the consolidation of liberal values has contributed to the growing acceptance of sexual diversity. However, the new sociopolitical context in Spain—characterized by the increasing politicization of LGTBIQ+ rights and the legitimization of the radical right-wing party VOX—may have triggered resistance among certain groups, and even reversals of previously observed trends. Although it is still too early to confirm a structural backlash, our findings indicate that the recent stagnation, together with the regressions seen in specific social sectors, raises important questions about a potential threat to the social acceptance of LGTBIQ+ people in Spain.