Sexual Orientation
Definition
Sexual orientation refers to the enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions to men, women, both genders, neither gender, or another gender.
Analogy
Consider sexual orientation like a compass. Just as a compass points towards the direction one should travel based on magnetic fields, sexual orientation points towards whom one is attracted based on emotional and physical attractions.
Related terms
Heterosexuality: Attraction to individuals of the opposite sex.
Homosexuality: Attraction to individuals of the same sex.
Bisexuality: Attraction to both males and females.
"Sexual Orientation" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (13)
What does sexual orientation refer to?
What is the primary difference between gender identity and sexual orientation?
What does research suggest about the correlation between genetics vs environmental factors in determining sexual orientation?
Which psychological perspective would most likely argue that biology plays a significant role in determining sexual orientation?
Which critique could be made about Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory in regards to gender and sexual orientation?
Why might some critics argue against psychodynamic theories' explanation of sexual orientation?
Which statement best summarizes the relationship between genetics and environment in determining an individual's sexual orientation?
What argument supports the idea that sexual orientation is influenced by biology?
How has importance of intersectionality impacted our understanding of gender and sexual orientation?
How does applying Freud's psychosexual stages theory in a clinical setting potentially conflict with ethical considerations regarding sexual orientation?
How does the theory of intersectionality apply to understanding sexual orientation?
Based on the understanding of gender and sexual orientation, which strategy could be most effective for a psychologist to help a transgender individual cope with social anxiety?
What is an important factor when developing effective psychological interventions for adolescents questioning their sexual orientation?
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