SEXUAL ORIENTATION
What it is:
Sexual orientation a construct that exists on a spectrum, and describes sexual attraction or lack thereof to different genders. Planned Parenthood also has a good overview on their website |
Remember:
Sexual orientation is not the same as sex or gender. Avoid the term “sexual preference,” as it falsely suggests that being attracted to the same sex is a choice. |
Examples of Personal Modifiers:
- Pansexual: An adjective to describe a person who is sexually attracted to individuals regardless of their gender.
- Gay: An adjective to describe a person who is attracted to individuals of the same gender (or sometimes, more specifically, a man who is attracted to men).
- Lesbian: An adjective to describe a woman who is attracted to women. You can also use this word as a noun.
- Heterosexual: An adjective to describe a person who is sexually attracted to individuals of a different gender.
- Bisexual: An adjective to describe a person who is sexually attracted to both male and female individuals.
- Asexual: An adjective to describe a person who does not experience sexual attraction to others (of any gender).
FAQs
What is LGBTQ? What is the difference between LGBTQ and LGBTQ+?
Is sexuality influenced by inheritance? Is there a “gay gene?”
Are there non-human examples of homosexuality, bisexuality, or pansexuality?
Can asexual people people have romantic attractions?
Is asexuality different from celibacy?
What language should I avoid when talking about sexual orientation?
How can I incorporate more LGBTQ+ voices into my curriculum?