What determines a person's sex preference?

Question

Since there are chromosomes that determine our sexes, and genes that determine our eye colour ...etc, there must be something that determines our sex preferences, are there?

Answer 1

This is a theory by Daryl Bem, I am not sure if it is labelled this way but has become known as 'Exotic becomes Erotic'.

First biological influences (genes etc) produce a child with particular childhood personalities (Bem calls these temperaments); some are aggressive and active, others are quietly sociable.

These temperaments interact with the childhood structure with boys who are active and aggressive and so enjoy rough place like boys do will fit into that group where as boys who might like more quiet activities might join up with girls.

With this the first boy with the other boys see girls as exotic and the second boy with the girls see boys as exotic.

Now comes in the psychological part. People are physically aroused by novel stimuli, that is when they see something strange or unusual their heart beats faster and blood pressure rises but they interpret this arouseal based on the environmental context and who/what is present in it.

So the boy in the group of boys becomes aroused by girls and the boy in the group of girls become aroused by boys.

But while studies have shown proof of this theory, they have not proven it.

However to answer the question it is a mix of our biological characteristics and our environments.

Answer 2

This is a highly controversial topic that calls upon the nature vs. nuture debate. Some people believe that a person is born gay (nature) and others say that sexual preference is determined by culture, parenting, etc (nurture). The fact of the matter is that none of us know for certain what the answer is.

In my recent psychology class, we learned that all aspects of a person's life: personality, sexual preference, etc. is not determined by nature or nuture alone, but by a combination of the two. We are born with certain genes that may or may not be activated based on our personal experiences. For example, a person may be born genetically predisposed to alcoholism, but based on that person's environment and personal experiences, they may or may not have a drinking problem. The same idea applies to sexuality.

Answer 3

There are more biological factors that COULD contribute than just genes. The other thing, though, is that I almost doubt if we'll ever know. There are people who are searching for "the gay gene" just so that they can advocate for people to abort any fetus in which it is present; as such, I've heard that the medical community is deliberately not looking into it.

The more important question is:why does it matter?

Answer 4

I feel you're born with a sexuality. Everyone is curious I think you only have one true sexuality. My (step) brother is gay and if he could choose... I'm sure he'd choose to be straight (his mother is super Christan and feels all homosexuals should go to hell along with everybody else on this planet that isn't her...) if he could. But supposedly there is a certain "gay gene", I don't think that homosexuality is a gene, but more of something inbred into you're mind while your being "made". That probably didn't make sense but, whether your born with it or not; I think homosexuality should be accepted either way.

Answer 5

There is no definitive concensus among the relevant authorities on the matter. There's a fair amount of credible evidence pointing to a genetic factor. Virtually every major relevant credible psychological and medical organization DOES absolutely state that it is NOT changable.

Answer 6

Following the example of Adam mating with Eve.

Answer 7

If you type into the search window, X & Y chromosomes you will find many listing to research... I hope this helps.. Good Luck..

Answer 8

a choice...just like choosing to kill, murder, steal, do drugs, lie, etc...you can't blame bad choices on genes...you do know being gay was labeled as a psychological disorder until 1974...

Answer 9

Chimistry


i don't know how but this is what is makes you Feel Drivin to someone and run away from someone better

Answer 10

No one really knows. Some say it genetic, and others say it's an acquired taste.