Summary: Biological Influences On Sexual Orientation

Sexual Orientation
The term sexual orientation is known as the preference of one’s sexual partners, whether the same sex, opposite sex, or both sexes. Sexual orientation occurs when a child reaches the adolescent stages in life (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). Adolescents activate their sexual orientation within four steps that create their identity. Adolescents are unaware of their identity at the beginning stages of sexual orientation. They work their way into the exploration stage by learning their preference of sexual partners. Once they are aware of their sexual identity, they will start the process of acceptance. Once acceptance is achieved, they will begin to integrate their sexual orientation into their lives (Gallor & Fassinger, 2010).
Sexual orientation is a topic scientists spend a great deal of time researching, however it is unclear what factors really have an effect on one’s sexual orientation. The role of biology, culture, socialization, and age contribute to the influences of sexual orientation.
Biological Influences on Sexual Orientation

Scientists believe there can be several different biological effects that guide the development of sexual orientation.

Genes are thought to play a critical role in sexual orientation, however which genes are actually contributing this effect is unknown. There are some genes being explored carefully, but there is no strong evidence existing. An example that demonstrates the correlation between genes and sexual orientation is twin studies. Evidence shows when one twin is homosexual the other twin will have a 50% chance of being homosexual as well. There seems to be a high concordance rate of sexual orientation between family members (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). It is evident, biology play a significant role in the development of sexual orientation, however much research is still being conducted to prove its

significance.
Cultural Influences on Sexual Orientation
Culture can play a critical role in the development of sexual orientation as well. The influencing of parenting has been shown to have a significant impact on sexual orientation. If a child grows up with one parent, a weak father influence, or a dominant mother, there is a high chance the child will be homosexual. Every culture has it’s own expectations of relationships. The cultural differences in relationships are associated with how well individuals will cope with one’s sexual orientation (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). Culture can become an extensive influence early on in life through family relationships.
Socialization’s Influence on Sexual Orientation
When discovering one’s sexual orientation it is essential to have social support. The support from friends and family will create positive social attachments. Studies show individuals who gain support by others for their sexual orientation have better health then those who do not receive support (Gallor & Fassinger, 2010). Support given to individuals who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual is through the LGBT community. The acceptance one receives through this community, gives individuals a healthier positive perception of their sexual orientation. There is a social stigma revolving around sexual orientation. This social stigma contributes to individuals becoming more heterosexual or bisexual (ZEA). It is important individuals accept their sexual identity and orientation in order to live their lives to the fullest.
Age Influences Sexual Orientation
Sexual orientation begins to form around middle to late adolescence. This is a critical time in one’s life where awareness and exploration of sexuality starts to occur. Age is a fundamental part of the development of sexual orientation. Adolescence is a time where social relationships are becoming a sizeable influence in one’s life. Peer pressure, conformity, and the need to fit in are becoming important aspects at this stage in life (Mustanski et al., 2014). At this age, children are being harassed and bullied for several reasons, especially one’s sexual identity and orientation. It will become hard for children to accept themselves, when they are receiving negative peer influences one a daily basis (Zea & Nakamura, 2014). Awareness of sexual orientation needs to be spread through communities and school systems in order for everyone to accept themselves and others.