Homosexuals and the Military: An Analysis of the Spiral of Silence

This study examines Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann's spiral of silence theory in terms of the controversial issue of whether homosexuals should be allowed to serve in the U.S. military. The study tests the theory's hypotheses in light of a content analysis of the media's treatment of the issue. The findings offer tentative and qualified support for Noelle-Neumann's theoretical propositions about the relationship between individuals' perceptions of the issue and the media's tenor of the issue. The study departs from previous research by examining the influence of the media at different stages in the spiral of silence model. Results suggest that the mass media may have separate but similar effects on perceptions of majority opinion and personal opinions. Results further reveal that, in certain situations, individuals who feel that their position is beginning to lose public support may feel compelled to voice their opinions.