Sexual orientation is a component of a person’s identity that includes “a person’s sexual and emotional attraction to another person, as well as the behavior and/or social affiliation that may result from this attraction.” We provide guidelines for discussing a list of sexual orientations in a way that is inclusive and respectful.
What is Sexual Orientation?
Sexual orientation refers to who you are more use to and want to date. It is also define as a person’s long-term physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction to another person. Gender identity and sexual orientation are not interchangeable terms. Straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer transgender people are all possible. A transgender woman who is only interest is men, for example, would typically identify as a straight woman.
Sexual orientation is different from gender and gender identity
Sexual orientation is concerned with who you are romantically, emotionally, and sexually attracted to. It is not the same as gender identity. This means that being transgender (feeling as if your assigned sex is very different from the gender with which you identify) is not the same as being gay, lesbian, or bisexual. Sexual orientation determines who you want to be with. Gender identity refers to one’s sense of self.
There are a bunch of identities inline with sexual orientation:
- People whos interest is a different gender (for example, women attracted to men or men attracted to women) frequently refer to themselves as straight or heterosexual.
- People who attracts people of the same gender are commonly refers to as gay or homosexual. Lesbian is a term that gay women may prefer.
- People who are attracted to both men and women are often referred to as bisexual.
- People who are attracted to multiple gender identities (male, female, transgender, genderqueer, intersex, etc.) may identify as pansexual or queer.
- Individuals who are unsure about their sexual orientation may refer to themselves as questioning or curious.
- People who have no sexual attraction to anyone are often labeled as asexual.
It’s also worth noting that some people believe none of these labels accurately describe them. Some people despise the concept of labels. Others are more at ease with certain labels than others. It’s up to you to decide how if at all, you want to label yourself.
LIST OF SEXUAL ORIENTATIONS
The same thing happens with LGBTQ+ terminology and definitions as language evolves. While we list various definitions below for context, we encourage readers to use this as a guideline to broaden their understanding of orientation and human sexuality on a broad level rather than as a rubric.
As a result, it is critical to remember that different terms may mean different things to different people, as sexual orientation is ultimately determined by an individual on their own terms, rather than by a fixed definition.
Some examples of sexual orientation, along with their possible meanings, are provided below;
1. Gay:
An adjective that describes people who are physically, romantically, emotionally, and/or spiritually attracted to people of the same sex. In modern contexts, the term is more commonly use to describe a subset of men who are sexually and/or romantically interest is other men.
2. Lesbian:
Typically refers to someone who identifies as a woman and is sexually and/or romantically attracted to other women.
3. Bisexual:
This is an umbrella term for people whose sexual and/or romantic desires are not limited to one sex or gender. It is an open and inclusive term that refers to a diverse group of people who have a wide range of experiences centered on same-sex and different-sex attractions. Individuals may experience this attraction in varying ways and to varying degrees throughout their lives.
4. Queer:
an umbrella term for people who are sexually and/or romantically attracted to any number of non-strictly heterosexual attractions Sexual, physical, and/or romantic attraction(s) to the same sex and/or gender, either sex or gender, non-binary attraction, polyamorous sexual identity, or other ways that may or may not align with heterosexual or heteronormative sexual orientation or expression There are numerous ways to apply this term to sexual orientation expression.
5. Questioning:
In this context, an adjective describing a state of being in which an individual is unsure (whether privately or publicly) of their own sexual orientation that they were raise with, previously or currently identify with themselves. This state is frequently cause by a disequilibrium between perceived social expectations and their own innate discovery or manifestation of attractiveness.
6. Asexual:
an adjective describing a person who lacks sexual and/or physical attraction to others A person with this orientation may or may not be involved in romantic or other types of intimate relationships. The person may still engage in sexual behavior, usually for the sake of a partner. It is important to note that being asexual does not necessarily imply that one is completely opposed to sexual relations; rather, it simply means that one does not actively desire them.
7. Aromatic:
an adjective describing someone who has little or no romantic attraction to others and/or is uninterested in romantic behavior/relationships. While romantic people want romantic relationships, aromatic people aren’t moved by the fact that they don’t have them.
8. Pansexual:
an adjective used to describe people who can be attracted to people regardless of their gender identity Persons who identify as bisexual may use this definition instead, and the definitions of these two identities are heavily influenced by the people who use them.
9. Demisexual:
a person who is sexually attracted to others only after forming a strong emotional bond with them.
10. Demiromantic:
This is a word that has a lot of different meanings depending on who. It an adjective used to describe people who have little or no capacity for romantic attraction until they form a strong sexual or emotional connection with another person.
11. Polyamorous:
refers to a person who desires or is inclined to have honest and consensual non-monogamous relationships (that may include multiple partners). This could include open relationships, polyfidelity (when more than two people are in romantic and/or sexual relationships and are not open to additional partners than those in the relationship), and so on. Ethical non-monogamy is another name for it.
What if I don’t want to be labeled?
It’s perfectly fine if you don’t want to be labeled. You are the only one who can decide which sexual identity best describes you. However, some people may feel that none of the common labels are appropriate for them.
Your sexual orientation and identity do not have to change throughout your life. It can also change depending on who you’re attracted to, romantically partnered with, or sexually active with. This is perfectly normal. Once you’ve claimed a label, there’s no reason why it can’t change along with you.
Changing your identity does not imply that you are “confused.” Many people, young and old, go through changes in who they are attracted to and how they identify. This is referred to as “fluidity.”
What Factors Influence Sexual Orientation?
Sexual orientation is a natural part of who you are; it is not something you can choose. Your sexual orientation can shift over the course of your life. It is unclear why someone might be lesbian, gay, straight, or bisexual. However, research indicates that sexual orientation is likely cause in part by biological factors that begin before birth.
People do not choose who they are attracted to, and no amount of therapy, treatment, or persuasion will change a person’s sexual orientation. You can’t even “turn” someone gay. Exposing a boy to toys traditionally designed for girls, such as dolls, will not cause him to be gay.
You probably became aware of who interest at a young age. This does not imply that you had sexual feelings; rather, you were able to identify people you found attractive or liked. Many people claim to have known they were lesbian, gay, or bisexual before they reached puberty.
Although sexual orientation is usually determined early in life, it is not uncommon for your desires and attractions to change over time. This is referred to as “fluidity.” Many people, including sex researchers and scientists, believe that sexual orientation is like a scale, with one end entirely gay and the other entirely straight. Many people would be in the middle, rather than at the extremes.
How many people are LGBTQ?
LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning) is an acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning.
Although researchers attempt to determine how many LGBTQ people exist, obtaining an accurate figure is extremely difficult. This is because people’s gender identities, sexual orientations, sexual identities, and sexual behavior are all complicated. Let’s take it one step at a time:
- Gender identity refers to who you believe you are on the inside and how you express those feelings through your actions, speech, and clothing.
- Sexual attraction refers to romantic or sexual feelings you have for other people.
- Your sexual identity is how you identify yourself (for example, using labels such as queer, gay, lesbian, straight, or bisexual).
- Sexual behavior refers to who you have sex with and the types of sex you prefer.
However, these factors do not always coincide. Not everyone who has sexual feelings or desires for the same gender will act on them. Some people engage in same-gender sexual behavior but do not identify as bisexual, lesbian, or gay. Coming out as LGBTQ can cause fear and discrimination in some situations, and not everyone is comfortable doing so. Some people’s sexual orientation can change at different points in their lives, as can the labels they use to describe themselves.
How do I determine my sexual orientation?
This is very common, and it does not indicate that you are in any way abnormal. Understanding one’s sexual orientation can take years, if not a lifetime, for some people. People frequently discover that they have been “questioning” their sexual orientation for some time, or that none of the labels used to describe sexual orientation fit them. Some people may try on a label to see if it fits, then switch to another if it doesn’t. This is also acceptable
Some people are afraid of homophobia and sexual orientation discrimination, so they are hesitant to come out to others or even to themselves. Many LGBTQ people face these very real issues. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I gay/bisexual?” you’re not alone. Speaking with a trusted friend or family member may assist you in determining the problem.
Can others tell what sexual orientation I have?
No. You can only tell someone your sexual orientation if you tell them. Only you know what it’s like to be you, and your sexual orientation describes how you feel on the inside.
Some people believe they can tell if someone is lesbian, gay, or bisexual based on superficial factors such as how they look, dress, or act. These are stereotypes, or oversimplified assessments of how lesbian, gay, and bisexual people behave. However, homosexual and bisexual people, like heterosexuals, can look, dress, and behave in a variety of ways. Using stereotypes to label another person’s sexual orientation can be both inaccurate and hurtful.
What exactly does it mean to “come out”?
Coming out refers to the process by which LGBTQ people work to accept their sexual orientation or gender identity and share that identity openly with others.
It is a very brave thing to do, and it is extremely personal and unique to each individual. When you come out, your emotions may range from scared and anxious to elated and relieved.
There is no one correct way to exit. It may feel better to be open and honest about your sexual orientation rather than hide it, but there are several factors to consider before coming out.
- Coming out is a gradual process. Coming out to yourself is frequently the first step. This occurs as you become aware of your sexual orientation and begin to accept it. Following that, you may choose to notify your family, friends, and community members — sometimes immediately, sometimes later. You may choose to be open with some people in your life while remaining closed to others.
- Coming out is not a one-time occurrence. Coming out is a continuous process because many people assume that everyone they meet is straight. When an LGBTQ-identified person meets a new person (friends, coworkers, nurses and doctors, etc.), they must decide whether, when, and how to come out.
- The decision to come out is influence by the circumstances. Coming out can be liberating and bring you closer to the people you care about. However, it can also be stressful, risky, or dangerous. You may feel more secure if you do not come out in certain situations. You are free to choose what is best for you.
How do I come out to my parents and friends?
There is no one way to come out to your family and friends. You are the expert on what feels right to you and who you should tell.
Here are some ideas to help make the conversation go more smoothly:
- Allow yourself some time to practice how you’ll do it and what you’ll say once you’ve decided you’re ready to come out.
- Identify the people or people in your life who you believe will be the most accepting of the news, and approach them first. When the topic of LGBTQ people comes up in conversation, you can often tell how friendly someone is to them.
- Do some research so that you have information about being LGBTQ in case your loved one has questions or lacks information.
- You might feel more at ease telling someone in person rather than writing a letter or sending an e-mail. That’s perfectly fine.
- Prepare to wait as they digest and accept the new information after you’ve decided who you’ll come out to, what you’ll say to them, and how you’ll say it. Allow them the time they require.
Don’t assume that everyone will react with prejudice; instead, approach the situation with an open mind. Some people may surprise you with their openness and acceptance, and many people already know other LGBTQ people.
Where can I find support if I’m coming out?
You can get help from a variety of sources, including:
- Other LGBTQ people who may have gone through the process of coming out
- LGBTQ+ online support groups
- LGBTQ adults you may already know and trust, such as family members or teachers
- Straight people who support LGBTQ people
- Your school has a Gay/Straight Alliance.
- Human Rights Campaign (HRC), The Trevor Project, and other LGBTQ organizations
- A LGBTQ community center in the area
Not everyone lives in an area with a Gay/Straight Alliance or an LGBTQ community center. The Internet is extremely helpful in locating communities and finding support for coming out.
What are homophobia and sexual orientation discrimination?
The fear, hatred, discomfort, or mistrust of lesbian, gay, or bisexual people is defined as homophobia. Biphobia is the fear, hatred, discomfort, or mistrust of bisexual people. Transphobia, on the other hand, is defined as fear, hatred, discomfort, or mistrust of people who are transgender, genderqueer, or do not conform to traditional gender norms.
While transphobia, biphobia, and homophobia are all related, they are not the same thing. Transphobic and biphobic feelings can exist in both gay and straight people, and transphobic feelings can exist without being homophobic or biphobic.
Homophobia can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including negative attitudes and beliefs about, aversion to, or prejudice toward bisexual, lesbian, and gay people. People may hold homophobic beliefs if their parents and families instilled them in them.
When it comes to lesbian and gay people, homophobic people may use derogatory language and name-calling. Biphobic people may tell bisexual people that they are doing it “just for attention” or that they are inherently cheaters. In its most extreme manifestations, homophobia and biphobia can lead to bullying, abuse, and violence against lesbian, gay, and bisexual people.
Some LGBTQ people face prejudice because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This could be discrimination by religious institutions, businesses, or our government.
What is the definition of internalized homophobia?
Internalized homophobia describes individuals who are homophobic while also experiencing same-sex attraction. People who have negative attitudes and beliefs about those who experience same-sex attraction may sometimes turn those negative beliefs on themselves rather than confronting their own desires. This could mean that they are uncomfortable and disapprove of their own same-sex attractions, that they never accept their same-sex attractions, or that they never identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual.
People who have internalized homophobia may feel the need to “prove” that they are straight, exhibit stereotypical straight men and women behavior, or even bully and discriminate against openly gay people.
Related Articles: SEXUALITIES: DEFINITION, TYPES & COMPREHENSIVE LIST IN 2023
What exactly is an outing?
The act of revealing someone else’s sexual orientation without their permission is known as an outing. If you share information about someone’s sexual orientation against their wishes, you risk negatively impacting their lives by making them feel embarrassed, upset, and vulnerable.
You may also expose them to discrimination and violence. Remember that if someone shares their sexual orientation with you, it is very personal information, and it is an honor that they trusted you enough to tell you.
Where can I get help if I’m experiencing homophobia?
People who are subject to homophobic, biphobic, or transphobic harassment frequently feel isolated and are afraid to tell anyone what is going on. Harassment should never be an option. Never have to deal with harassment.
You can get help from the following people: other LGBTQ people
- Your neighborhood LGBTQ community center
- LGBTQ+ online support groups
- Q Chat Space allows LGBTQ+ teens to connect with one another through live-chat group discussions, regardless of where they are.
- LGBTQ adults you may already know and trust, such as family members or teachers
- Straight people who support LGBTQ people
- If your high school has a Gay/Straight Alliance, join it.
Not everyone lives in an area with a Gay/Straight Alliance or an LGBTQ community center in their high school. In this situation, the Internet is extremely helpful in locating communities and resources for dealing with homophobia and discrimination.
If you do not seek help and simply accept the harassment, it will most likely continue or worsen over time. This can make keeping up with grades, activities, and school in general difficult. If possible, seek the assistance of a trusted teacher or adult who is an ally to LGBTQ students.
What can I do to help stop homophobia?
No one has the right to discriminate against or bully another person, or to inflict emotional or physical harm on them. You can help to end homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia by doing the following:
- Never use derogatory or offensive terminology to describe LGBTQ people.
- Be mindful of how even casual language, such as saying “that’s so gay,” can cause harm to others.
- Don’t believe stereotypes or make assumptions about LGBTQ people.
- Regardless of your own sexual orientation or identity, be a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community. This is refers to as being an ally.
- Make it clear to the LGBTQ people in your life that you are a friend and ally.
- Become knowledgeable about LGBTQ issues.
- Respect LGBTQ people’s choices about when and where they will come out.
Summary
A person’s sexual orientation describes who they have romantic and sexual feelings for. Sexuality can exist on a spectrum, and people do not have to be sexually and romantically attracted to the same person or gender at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I more attracted to guys than girls?
According to research, human sexuality is not a simple binary of homosexual and heterosexual. It is a spectrum that ranges from homosexual to heterosexual to bisexual. Environmental, biological, and sociological factors all have an impact on a person’s sexual orientation.
Am I normal? Is being gay or bisexual a mental illness? Do I need to seek medical help?
Homosexuality and bisexuality are not disorders of the mind. According to research, sexual orientation has no effect on mental health or emotional stability.
What iis homosexuality/ bisexuality?
Homosexuality is an emotional, romantic, and sexual attraction to another person of the same sex. The term ‘gay’ refers to men who are attracted to men, and ‘lesbian’ refers to women who are attracted to women. The attraction to both sexes is bisexuality.
