Exploring Sexuality And Sexual Behaviors

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Phase 2: Exploration Awareness is followed by exploration. The authors hypothesized that people in this phase would have strong relationships with or feelings for the same sex in particular, but will not necessarily involve exploration of sexual behaviors (McCarn & Fassinger, 1996). Exploration “is characterized by active pursuit of knowledge about lesbian/gay people, in terms of both the group as a whole and the possibility of one’s belonging in the group” (McCarn & Fassinger, 1996, p. 524). Participants were asked if they have explored their sexuality, and if so, how. Elise has explored her sexuality through various relationships, events/night clubs, and websites. Dominick has been in four romantic relationships, and six sexual relationships, all with men. Additionally, Dominick has made out with over 40 people, consisting of gay men, straight women, queer women, transgender men, and genderqueer individuals. He has experienced sexual attraction to women and non-binary individuals, which is why he prefers to label myself queer over gay. Sara is currently single, but has been in relationships with two men in the past. Sara has gone with some friends to a club that attracts a lot of LGBTQ+ individuals, but choses to stay with her friend group instead of dancing with people she does not know. Additionally, Sara admits that she has watched straight and gay porn before, but is turned on primarily by straight porn. The last question discussed in this phase was about how diversity and social justice may affect participant’s sexuality. Elise feels she is more passionate about diversity and social justice now that she is questioning her sexuality. Elise believes she has a greater role and voice in advocating for members of the LGBTQ+ comm... ... middle of paper ... ...llies, she works hard to educate others on sexual identity. Dominick has increased his sexual identity awareness for a long time. Dominick talked about how he has become aware of language and actions, and knows where he can feel safe and least safe. Dominick educates people on what they can do to help LGBTQ+ people, and tries to eliminate stereotypes of queer people. Dominick has attended Pride and other events many times as well. Sara believes she has become more aware of her identity the older she gets. Sara is often times embarrassed by the heterosexual privilege that exists in the world. Additionally, Sara feels LGBTQ+ people make assumptions about her, seeing her as underdeveloped on LGBTQ+ issues because they do not directly affect her. Sara feels this is not true, as she has a family member who is gay, and understands what he has gone through in his lifetime.

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