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Human sexuality is the way people experience and express themselvessexually. This involvesbiological,psychological,physical,erotic,emotional,social, orspiritual feelings and behaviors. Because it is a broad term which has varied within different historical contexts, it lacks a precise definition. The biological and physical aspects of sexuality largely concern thehuman reproductive functions, including thehuman sexual response cycle.
Someone'ssexual orientation is their pattern of sexual interest in the opposite and/or same sex. Physical and emotional aspects of sexuality include bonds between individuals that are expressed through profound feelings or physical manifestations oflove, trust, and care. Social aspects deal with the effects of human society on one's sexuality, while spirituality concerns an individual's spiritual connection with others. Sexuality also affects and is affected by cultural, political, legal, philosophical,moral,ethical, and religious aspects of life.
Interest in sexual activity normally increases when an individual reachespuberty. Although no single theory on the cause of sexual orientation has yet gained widespread support, there is considerably more evidence supporting nonsocial causes of sexual orientation than social ones, especially for males. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors. This is further supported by cross-cultural evidence because the incidence ofhomosexuality is not significantly higher in cultures that are more tolerant of it.
Evolutionary perspectives on human coupling, reproduction andreproduction strategies, andsocial learning theory provide further views of sexuality. Sociocultural aspects of sexuality includehistorical developments andreligious beliefs. Some cultures have been described assexually repressive. The study of sexuality also includes human identity within social groups,sexually transmitted infections (STIs), andbirth control methods. (Full article...)
Along withbisexuality andheterosexuality, homosexuality is one of the three main categories of sexual orientation within theheterosexual–homosexual continuum. There is no consensus among scientists about why a person develops a particular sexual orientation; however, biologically-based theories for the cause of sexual orientation are favored by experts, which point to genetic factors, the early uterine environment, or both in combination. There is no substantive evidence which suggests parenting or early childhood experiences play a role when it comes to sexual orientation; when it comes to same-sex sexual behavior, shared or familial environment plays no role for men and minor role for women. While some hold the view that homosexual activity is unnatural, research has shown that homosexuality is an example of a normal and natural variation in human sexuality and is not in and of itself a source of negative psychological effects. Most people experience little or no sense of choice about their sexual orientation. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of psychological interventions to change sexual orientation. (Full article...)
January - June 2008
For editor resources and to collaborate with other editors on improving Wikipedia's Human sexuality-related articles, seeWikiProject Sexology and sexuality.
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