Homosexuality and bisexuality

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Definitions & interpretations
of the term "sexual orientation"

About "sexual orientation:"

The term "sexual orientation" is embraced by some groups, and rejected by others.

It is interpreted in terms of feelings of "emotional, romantic, sexual, or affectional attraction" ₁ by some groups, and in terms of actual sexual behavior by others.

Many religious and social conservatives prefer the term "sexual preference." This term would seem to imply that a people with a homosexual orientation are attracted to both males and females, but prefer one over the other. That is, nobody exists with a homosexual orientation; all who claim to be such are really bisexuals.

Groups cannot even agree on the number of actual sexual orientations that exist:

	Some religious and social conservatives imply that there are two;
	Some conservatives list as many as 30.
	The majority of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transsexuals (LGBT), sexologists, religious liberals, therapists, legislators etc. have reached a consensus that there are three: heterosexuality, bisexuality, homosexuality. However, some add a fourth: asexuality -- lack of sexual attraction.

Confusion reigns. Discussion, debate and dialogue is essentially impossible.

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Topics discussed in this section:

	The American Psychological Association (APA) definition and its interpretation by various groups
	Definitions by other groups
	More information on conflicts over definitions
	Definitions by most religious and social conservatives A unique definition created by fundamentalist Christian groups: Part 1  Part 2
	Definitions in federal legislation and by other groups

Related essay:

Meaning of the terms "homophobia" and "homophobic"

References used:

The following information source was used to prepare and update the above essay. The hyperlink is not necessarily still active today.

1. "Sexual Orientation and Homosexuality," APA Help Center, at: http://www.apahelpcenter.org/

Copyright © 2007 to 2015 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance
Original posting: 2007-JUN-05
Latest update: 2015-DEC-19
Author: B.A. Robinson

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