heterosexuality

biology

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June 29, 2026

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Heterosexuality is defined as an enduring pattern of emotional, sexual, or romantic attraction to the opposite gender. It is one of the most common ways individuals describe their sexual orientation, alongside homosexuality (attraction to the same gender) and bisexuality (attraction to more than one gender).1

While the exact causes of sexual orientation are complex and not fully understood, research suggests it is influenced by a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Studies on twins and genetics have explored a potential biological basis for sexual orientation, though it's unlikely that genes solely determine whether someone is homosexual or heterosexual. Hormones also play a role in sexual development and motivation, but they are not directly linked to sexual orientation in humans. Theories like "exotic becomes erotic" propose that childhood temperament and feelings of difference can influence later attraction. It's important to note that sexual orientation is distinct from gender identity and can be fluid for some individuals over time.123456

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gender identity
…be adopted later in life; heterosexual or homosexual orientations also develop later.
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…be adopted later in life; heterosexual or homosexual orientations also develop later.
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homophobia
Homohysteria
…impossible to definitively prove one’s heterosexuality. Accordingly, heterosexuals and homosexuals wishing to be thought heterosexual are compelled to avoid associating with anything coded as homosexual. This is accomplished through the repeated association with cultural codes of heterosexuality and disassociation from codes for homosexuality. Conversely, the suspicion that someone is homosexual…
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…impossible to definitively prove one’s heterosexuality. Accordingly, heterosexuals and homosexuals wishing to be thought heterosexual are compelled to avoid associating with anything coded as homosexual. This is accomplished through the repeated association with cultural codes of heterosexuality and disassociation from codes for homosexuality. Conversely, the suspicion that someone is homosexual…
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human sexual activity
Sociosexual activity
…amount of sociosexual activity is heterosexual activity between only one male and one female. Heterosexual activity frequently begins in childhood, and, while much of it may be motivated by curiosity, such as showing or examining genitalia, many children engage in sex play because it is pleasurable. The sexual impulse and…
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…amount of sociosexual activity is heterosexual activity between only one male and one female. Heterosexual activity frequently begins in childhood, and, while much of it may be motivated by curiosity, such as showing or examining genitalia, many children engage in sex play because it is pleasurable. The sexual impulse and…
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sexuality
The spectrum of sexuality
…recognized forms of sexuality include heterosexuality, in which an individual is attracted to persons of the opposite sex or gender; homosexuality, which denotes attraction to those of the same sex or gender; bisexuality, in which one is attracted to men and women; pansexuality, which is an attraction that is not…
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…recognized forms of sexuality include heterosexuality, in which an individual is attracted to persons of the opposite sex or gender; homosexuality, which denotes attraction to those of the same sex or gender; bisexuality, in which one is attracted to men and women; pansexuality, which is an attraction that is not…
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