By Rich Wyler — People have been asking and researching the question of what “causes” same-sex sexual attractions for as far back as homosexuality or same-sex sexual behaviors have been recognized.
Of course, direct causation is almost impossible to prove. At Brothers Road, we frequently recognize many commonalities in our backgrounds. But that doesn’t mean that these commonalities prove causation. They don’t.
Nevertheless, scientists and social scientists have identified some general principles over the years.
Complex Interaction of Nature and Nurture
Scientists widely believe that homosexuality, like many other aspects of human behavior, results from a complex interaction of nature (biology or inborn factors) and nurture (developmental or environmental factors). This interplay of influences contributes to the diversity of human experiences and orientations.
Biological (Inborn) Factors
Biological factors refer to innate characteristics that an individual is born with. These can encompass a wide range of elements, such as:
- Temperament, aptitudes, and personality: The inherent traits that shape how a person responds to the world around them.
- Physical bodies: Attributes such as size, coordination, stamina, and artistic and athletic abilities may influence personal interactions with others and self-perceptions as well.
- Emotional sensitivity: The level of sensitivity and emotional responsiveness that affects how one experiences and processes emotions and relationships.
Developmental or Environmental Factors
In addition to biological factors, developmental or environmental factors may play a significant role in shaping an individual’s sexual orientation. These factors can include:
- Family upbringing: The dynamics, values, and relationships within a family can influence a person’s development and identity.
- Society or culture of upbringing: The broader cultural and societal context in which an individual is raised can impact their views on sexuality and relationships.
- Peers: Social interactions and friendships during formative years can contribute to the exploration and understanding of one’s sexual orientation.
- Individual life experience: Personal experiences, challenges, and milestones can shape how a person perceives and understands their sexuality.
Diverse Causes for Different People
The causes of homosexuality are likely to be different for different individuals. The “weight” or influence of one factor may vary significantly from one person to another. While one explanation may hold true for one individual, it may not apply to another. This diversity highlights the importance of avoiding a one-size-fits-all explanation for sexual orientation.
Variability in Outcomes
Similarly, the outcomes of these influences are also likely to differ for different people. Even individuals with similar upbringings, such as biological twins with the same genes, may respond differently to the same environment and experiences. One twin may develop same-sex attraction (SSA) while the other may not.
A more sensitive boy may experience hurt and perceived rejection where a more impervious boy may not.
Questioning the Importance of Knowing “Why”
Ultimately, the pursuit of understanding the precise causes of homosexuality raises an important question: how much does knowing the “why” really matter?
A benefit of an individual understanding the particular influences on his sexual attractions and behaviors is to help him look for potential areas of emotional healing or growth. He may identify unmet needs and unhealed wounds that may respond well to inner and interpersonal healing work that may lead to significant growth in his life.
Beyond that, the most important thing is usually to focus on self-acceptance and surrendering the idea that here is something broken or wrong with you.
The more important question is not, “Why am I this way?” but rather: “Given that I am who I am and feel what I feel, how do I create the healthiest, best life possible for myself?”