Sexual Orientation

‍

Sexual orientation is defined as a physical, emotional, or romantic attraction to other people. It can change over time and includes a spectrum of attractions that go beyond a binary understanding. In some people, orientation sexuality can be flexible or fluid, allowing them to change their preferences or feelings depending on circumstances or personal development.

Historical and cultural influences

Historical and cultural perceptions of orientation sexuality have changed over the centuries and take different forms in different societies. In ancient civilizations such as Ancient Greece and Rome, homosexual relationships were not condemned and were often seen as a way of nurturing and strengthening social bonds. However, with the advent of religious teachings such as Christianity and Islam in the Middle Ages, same sex relationships began to be condemned and perceived as a sin, creating enduring taboos and stereotypes.

In the 19th century, with the development of medicine and psychology, sexual orientation became a subject of scientific interest, but was often viewed as a pathology requiring “treatment.” It was not until the 20th century, with the rise of the LGBTQ+ movements, that a shift towards understanding sexual orientation as a natural aspect of identity began. In 1973, homosexuality was removed from the list of mental disorders, and LGBTQ+ rights began to be legally protected in a number of countries.

Today, attitudes towards sexual orientation still vary according to cultural context: in some countries LGBTQ+ rights are protected, while in others homosexuality remains prohibited. Modern society is striving for a more tolerant and safer approach that will allow people to openly express their orientation.

‍

Biological and psychological aspects of orientation

Research points to genetic and hormonal links between sexual orientation and biological factors; as certain areas of the brain responsible for sexual attraction may differ between people of different orientations, and even hormonal influences during pregnancy can also affect orientation formation. In addition to biology, orientation is also shaped by psychological and social factors, as self-identification can occur at different ages, and support from society and loved ones plays an important role.

Main aspects and types of orientation sexuality

1. Heterosexuality: attraction to people of the opposite sex. Considered the most common orientation, especially in traditional cultures where heterosexual relationships have historically been supported.
2. Homosexuality: attraction to people of the same sex. The term gay usually refers to men and lesbian usually refers to women. Homosexuality has a long history, but its acceptance has varied across cultures and eras.
3. Bisexuality: attraction to more than one sex or gender; bisexual people can experience attraction to men, women, and other genders. Bisexuality can manifest itself in different ways - some experience stronger attraction to one gender than the other.
4. Pansexuality: attraction to all genders, including non-binary people. Unlike bisexuality, pansexuality disregards gender differences, emphasizing the individual.
5. Asexuality: low or absent levels of sexual attraction. Asexual people can build romantic relationships but often lack sexual interest. Within asexuality, there are subtypes: e.g., sexually favorable (those who don't mind sex) and sexually neutral (no expressed preference for sexual activity).
6. Demisexuality: sexual attraction only occurs after a deep emotional connection has been established. Demisexuals emphasize the importance of trust and intimacy over the physical side of a relationship.
7. Graysexuals: experience sexual attraction on rare occasions or under special conditions, emphasizing a gradient in sexual orientation.
8. Queer and bicurious: the term “queer” encompasses orientations that fall outside traditional categories and can be used as a generalizing term. While bicurious people are exploring their orientation and may not yet have decided on an exact preference.

The relationship between sexual and romantic attraction

Sexual orientation can include both physical (sexual) and emotional (romantic) attraction, but these aspects may not be the same. Romantic attraction is emotional attachment and desire for a close relationship, while sexual attraction is physical attraction; therefore, a person may experience romantic feelings without feeling sexual interest.

‍

Support and acceptance of sexual orientation

Support and acceptance of sexual orientation play a key role in a person's well-being, especially during the self-identification and coming-out phase. This process is often accompanied by internal conflict, anxiety and fear of possible judgment; which is why support from family, friends, and community greatly reduces stress levels and increases a person's self-confidence. Research shows that family support reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, especially among LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults.

Family is a major influence in developing a healthy sense of one's orientation, as support from loved ones helps a person feel accepted and secure. While misunderstanding or judgment can lead to deep psychological trauma and feelings of rejection, friends and special communities also play an important role, often providing a safe space for sharing experiences and self-development.

Social and legal support is important for building confidence in the community. Legislative changes, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage and protection from discrimination, create an environment in which individuals can feel safe and free to express their identity. Psychological help is also becoming a significant resource, especially for those who face difficulties in accepting themselves: therapy helps to overcome internal barriers and increase self-esteem.

Support and therapy for a deeper understanding of sexual orientation

Sexual orientation can be more deeply understood and accepted with the support of therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ issues. Specialists help people to explore their orientation sexuality, work through internal barriers and let go of feelings of shame or guilt; and this approach can help improve quality of life and relationships, as well as reduce anxiety levels that often arise for people who find it difficult to accept themselves. Psychotherapy can give people the tools to express themselves confidently and help them cope with the pressures that often accompany open expression of orientation.

These new approaches show that sexual orientation is a much more complex and multi-layered phenomenon than traditionally thought. Thanks to the diversity of contemporary research and more open public discourse, the understanding of orientation has become more inclusive and free, allowing everyone to find their unique identity and feel accepted.

‍