Sexual Orientation Overview

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to sexual orientation as discussed in the lecture.

Sexual Orientation

The pattern of emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction one feels toward others.

Categorical vs. Continuous

Debate on whether sexual orientation fits into defined categories or exists on a spectrum.

Components of Sexual Orientation (Savin-Williams, 2006)

Three main aspects: identity, behavior, and arousal/attraction.

Asexuality

A lack of sexual attraction to any gender.

Ego Dystonic Homosexuality

A diagnosis for individuals distressed by their sexual orientation, removed from DSM-III-R.

Homosexuality Historical Context

Initially classified as a mental illness in DSM-I and DSM-II.

Stonewall Riots (1969)

A pivotal event in 1969 where LGBTQ+ activists protested police harassment at the Stonewall Inn.

Implicit Theories of Sexual Preference

Theories suggesting biological, socialized, or choice-based origins of sexual orientation.

Same-Sex Behaviors in Animals

Documented same-sex behaviors in over 500 species, challenging notions of 'natural' behavior.

Gay Gene

The theory that no single gene determines sexual orientation; genetics only accounts for part of sexual behavior.

Conversion Therapy

Attempts to change an individual's sexual orientation, widely discredited and considered harmful.

Nature vs. Nurture Debate

Discussion on whether sexual orientation is biologically innate or socially constructed.

Dan Savage’s “Three Layer Cake”

A model describing sexual orientation consisting of who you want, who you are doing, and who you tell.

Sexual Orientation Disturbance

Previously a diagnosis for those distressed about their sexual orientation.

Cross-Species Sexual Behavior

The occurrence of same-sex behavior across various species in nature.

Cultural Acceptance of Same-Sex Relationships

Varied acceptance of same-sex behaviors across cultures, historically pre- and post-colonization.

LGBTQ+ Rights Advances in Canada

Legal changes in Canada including decriminalization of homosexuality and same-sex marriage.

Biological Model of Sexual Orientation

The belief that sexual orientation is largely determined by genetic factors.

Environmental/Socialized Model

The belief that sexual orientation is learned through social interaction or influenced by cultural norms.

Historical Absence of Sexual Orientation Concepts

Lack of historical labels like 'gay' or 'lesbian' in many cultures prior to modern definitions.

Asexual Spectrum

A range of identities related to a lack of sexual attraction, including demisexual and grey-A.

Statistics on Asexuality

Studies indicate around 1% of people identify as asexual, with notable differences in sexual activity levels.

Asexual Relationships

Asexuals can have various relationships, engage socially and emotionally while lacking sexual attraction.

Neurodiversity and Asexuality (Chan et al., 2025)

Research shows higher identification of asexuality among neurodivergent individuals, particularly autistics.

Social Historical Context of Identity

Individual identities are influenced by social and historical factors, making them subjective.

LGBTQ+ Autonomy and Equality

The drive for recognition, dignity, and self-determination within LGBTQ+ communities.

Khumhotep & Niankhkhnum (2400 BCE)

Ancient Egyptian tomb depicting two men in an intimate embrace, often cited as an early example of same-sex partnership, challenging modern notions of sexuality.

Benkert & Ulrichs (1860s - Social Construction of Sexual Orientation)

Pioneering thinkers who contributed to the early conceptualization of same-sex desire as an innate characteristic, moving towards a social construction of sexual orientation.

Canada (Sexual Orientation in the Past: 1969-2005)

Period marking significant legal and social shifts in Canada regarding homosexuality, from decriminalization to the legalization of same-sex marriage.

Bailey et al., 2016

Research contributing to the understanding of genetic and environmental influences on sexual orientation, often examining twin studies.

Lisa Diamond

Research contributing to the understanding of genetic and environmental influences on sexual orientation, often examining twin studies.

Bogaert, 2004

Research focusing on theories related to the 'fraternal birth order effect,' suggesting a biologically-based factor influencing male homosexuality.

Walton et al., 2016

Research exploring the social and psychological factors influencing sexual orientation, including identity development and well-being within LGBTQ+ communities.