What do you believe causes homosexuality?

1. 77

   jlparkposted 9 years ago

   What do you believe causes homosexuality?
   
   I'm curious as to what people believe in relation to the causes of homosexuality. Please let me know where you got this believe from - your parents, your own deductions, your religion. PLEASE DO NOT DISPARAGE ANYONE'S response - I'm geniunely curious and will remove any comments that try to prove other's answers wrong. Yes, I have my own knowledge on this matter, but I'm curious and doing some research (I also live in a different time zone to most - I will delete as I mentioned when I see it, apologies for any delay)

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   Bronwyn Joy Ellioposted 9 years ago

   Please do not delete my answer, as I have no issue with others knowing my opinions
   Everyone's sexuality is determined by one simple factor - genetics. My brothers were all born heterosexual. I was born transgender.
   There IS no nature v nurture nonsense, as we all grew up in the same house, sharing the same toys, same rooms, same parents.
   Heck, we even shared the same clothes.
   I have no issue with those people of faith who do not agree with my view. That is there right. Good luck with your research

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      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Wasn't meaning answers - more that comments that were being nasty about the opinion given would be removed. You are fine! Thanks for sharing.

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3. 90

   SheilaPornanposted 9 years ago

   To my observation, I think it's mostly because of the environment, the people around the person and how that person was brought up.
   
   I know someone who grew up as the youngest & only son of 4 siblings. He used to belong to a group of teenagers doing boys' stuff but started showing the signs at the age of 15. After that, he spent more time w/ his sisters. He said he feels like he now belongs in the group.
   
   Another was a childhood friend. He was influenced as a child by someone he looked up to & started acting like one. But we go to church together attending Sunday schools & he later on decided he's not going to go against how he was wonderfully created. He never looked back.
   
   We can see more homosexuals, even kids, in areas where it is approved and encouraged. They emulate whatever they see on TV or follow an adult's example, most of the time someone they respect & admire, thinking it's okay & accepted. Just my thoughts, living from a country where homosexuality is everywhere & tolerated.

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      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for sharing your opinions!

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      jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Appreciate your answer Sheila, but just want to say that being gay does not mean cross-dressing or behaving "effeminate" (or macho in the sense of being lesbian).

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4. 79

   Say Yes To Lifeposted 9 years ago

   Growing up religiously conservative, I used to believe it was caused by emotionally stunted growth.  An old facts of life book told a story of a boy who lost his mother at an impressionable age, and another of a young woman who was unlucky in love and regressed as a result.
   Being older, wiser, and more liberal in thinking, I now believe it is genetically determined, and brought on by environment.  It is nature's form of population control; someone with the gene living in a crowded city is more likely to become gay.
   People change over time as well.  They may start off as gay and become straight, or vice versa

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      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for that Yoleen!

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      jbosh1972posted 9 years agoin reply to this

      That is a very thought provoking idea.  I am not sure if I agree 100% but will ponder this awhile for sure.  At least the population control thing in a crowded city seems plausable.

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      jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Given full rein and a loving community acceptance, homosexual persons and couples can be a great contribution to birth control, subject of course to usual responsible social conduct. All part of successful living in community.

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5. 87

   mireland19posted 9 years ago

   I am uncertain about answering this question simply because I do not want to offend anyone else's beliefs or sexuality. However, it is a very interesting topic and I am curious to see everyone's responses and think this is a great place to get respectful answers!
   
   My opinion is just that, my opinion, and just because I have a certain view dose not mean everyone else should feel the same way, that I am right and everyone else is wrong, or that anyone else's opinions are any less important then mine

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      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for sharing that and I hope you learn as much as I do from the answers.

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6. 83

   gmwilliamsposted 9 years ago

   
   
   It is genetic.  There are people who have a predisposition towards homosexuality as there are those who have a predisposition towards being heterosexuals.   God made us all. All of us are born differently.  Humankind have a limited perception towards sexuality and what it means to be normal sexually.   God and/or the Universe does not have such a limited perception at all.   People are people regardless of sexual orientation.  Some are born heterosexual, others homosexual, and still there are those who are bisexual.

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      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for your answer, GM!

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   peter565posted 9 years ago

   I've seen u decided to ask ur own question on the topic. (Don't know whether u would delete my answer, ur choice) All human behavior/believe/personality, is due his psychic. And sexual preference is part of personality. Question is, is it due to default(DNA) or environmental or both. I think it depends on people. Even amount straight people, for example, I like girls who are free spirits, hot & make good wife & mum. Because, I am out going, so I like girl of free spirit personality, hot (because I'm don't care about finding someone or not, so I only settle for hot), good wife and mother (because I believe it is important in lasting relationship) but in high school, I don't like free spirit girls, I went to boy school, thus know few girls, so I thought only slutty girls are free spirit, then in college I notice that's not true. So, my psychology determine my preference.
   
   I don't know what % of gay/straight is cause by default psychic (DNA) or environmental. I guess it varies with people and some can switch team, other can't.
   
   I laugh while seen the gay try justify been gay isn't wrong, by arguing it is moral, not a sin, not a choice and normal, because those are irrelevant.  U aren't wrong if, u don't effect other's freedom, don't hurt people, endanger society or conduct treason, been gay don't violate it, thus it's not wrong, end of discussion
   
   I might be of western heritage, but I grew up in Taiwan. In Asia(exclude Communist), since 1st grade, we are taught, as long as u don't violate harmony u are not doing anything wrong (Confucius) violating harmony is effecting other's freedom, hurt others, endanger society or conduct treason, nothing else. I agree with this value, I believe many in the west don't yet understand it and that include the gays. And is why "is gay right/wrong" debate, in west, revolt around irrelevant topic of, is it a choice, moral, normal, sin, in Asia, we don't care. (and I know u don't want to hear it, but I still believe for some, been gay is a choice)
   
   In term of gay marriage, anti gay marriage argue saying it would open door to others marriage type eg polygamy. The response should be simple "national policy should be set in public interest, thus, it is whether legalizing gay marriage is in national interest, the same apply to sibling marriage, polygamy etc." U guys have build a good case for why legalizing gay marriage, is in public interest. I only see bad news for people in legalizing sibling marriage, so I don't support it, polygamy depends on circumstances.

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      peter565posted 9 years agoin reply to this

      PS: Because its psych, we can argue, with enough study, a specialize can turn gay people straight and straight people gay. But only ethical (and only legal) for pros to change one's sexual orientation, if one want to and request his support

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   2. 77

      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for sharing Peter.

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      jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      I wonder if anyone trying to "change" from being homosexual to being heterosexual is doing so from his/her personal choice, or whether it's because others around are pushing him/her to become "normal."
      Bullying comes in many forms.

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      MizBejabbersposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      I don't think it works. It is responsible for suicides because, Alan, as you ask, usually people are bullied by family into this type of therapy.

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      thegeckoposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      "All human behavior/believe/personality, is due his psychic."
      
      That's false. Many behaviors, such as instincts, are hardwired into us and all other animals. No experience required

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   6. 51

      Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Sometimes "innate" & is "a cross to bear!" Again, "control" shows "maturity!" If we ALL had "no control of feelings," my God, no marriages, all alcoholics and/or drug addicts, stealing, murder, etc. World would b worst!   
      
      My heart goes out 2 A

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   7. 91

      Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Norine, I think your shorthand is way too short because all I can understand of it is the Bible verse numbers. Why not write a hub where you can use full words and sentences? The gibberish shorthand is frustrating to try to make sense of.

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   8. 53

      peter565posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      No Catholicism, no discrimination. The church is the root of all evil.

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8. 71

   dashingscorpioposted 9 years ago

   What do you believe causes heterosexuality?
   That is question one should probably ask them self first.
   As a heterosexual male I don't recall "choosing" to be attracted to women. I naturally found them attractive and sexually desirable.
   It wasn't as if one day I flipped a coin.
   I suspect that would be how most gay and lesbian people are as well. Instinctively that's whom they were attracted to early on.
   After all everyone is the product of heterosexual union. Therefore heterosexuals produce gay and lesbian people.
   Some scientists have been looking for a specific gene or hormonal imbalance. Other people believe it's a choice which makes about as much since in our society as choosing to be black at a KKK meeting. What would be the "upside" to making that choice?
   Another theory is (socialization and first sexual experience).
   Some people believe maybe in school certain kids were bullied by their own sex and the opposite sex refused to have anything to do with them. They in turn bonded with other bullied children who were walking in their same  shoes. Over the years they maybe had their first pleasurable sexual experience together. A lot of folks also believe there are cases of same sex child molestation in which the first sexual experience plays a large factor especially if it involved the victim receiving any form of pleasure.
   Last but not least is the theory of "voluntarily choosing". One example is someone who has been mistreated in past relationships by the opposite sex and decides to "experiment" with someone of the same sex and falls in love. Some people even believe it a "trendy" thing at the moment and point to people like Anne Heche who was with Ellen DeGeneres and then later married a man.
   Was she truly a lesbian or was she just into Ellen? Who knows.
   Maybe for some people they have "exceptions" of same sex specific individual people they're attracted to but not the gender as a whole.
   Ultimately it doesn't matter to me why or who people are attracted to the same sex. My life remains the same either way. Live and let live.

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      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for your answer!

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      Shandersposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Beautifully said!

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      Binish Ahmedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      You spoke my mind

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9. 81

   peoplepower73posted 9 years ago

   I have a niece who as a little girl cried whenever her mother dressed her in girly clothes.  She tried marriage to a straight man and the marriage was annulled, shortly thereafter.  She has masculine features and now works for AT&T as a lineman.  She is very happy with her partner.
   
   I worked with a lady who told her parents from the time she could talk, "please take me back to the hospital and make me a man."  She also has many masculine features and behaviors.
   
   My son is dropped dead handsome and women are really attracted to him (no prejudice here).  As he was growing up, we could see he was not very comfortable in dating women. He is now 45 and  came out three years ago and told us he is tired of living a lie and wanted to share his life with someone.  He now lives with his partner and is very happy, and as his parents, we are also happy.   His partner also has feminine features and behaviors
   
   I believe you can't pray away the gay or use therapy.  People are all wired differently by their genetic differences.  Nature never does anything in a straight line.  If it did, we would all look alike and all have the same behavior.  Nature has given us a continuum between maleness and femaleness.  In gay people, it is more extreme.  This my opinion based on my experiences and observations.

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   1. 77

      jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks for yr answer and sharing yr experience.

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      rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Alan, I hve close friends like u, relatives and in the family if u wish to know. Mine is pure academics, but I also sk d truth, one of my daughters is Gay. Regrdng ur last sentence, NO, if u hve already come 2 terms with 8, by all means enjoy life!

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    chef-de-jourposted 9 years ago

    It has to be a combination of genetic, social and cultural influences. There is strong evidence that gay people are born with a different genetic make up - was it in Psychological Medicine, last year I think - where 800 gay brothers had their blood and saliva tested under strict scientific scrutiny. The facts are there.
    What isn't clear yet is why social and cultural influences come into play. At the end of the day we're all humans with genes and potential for good.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       It's complex isn't it?! Thanks for your answer.

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       ChrisCampbell05posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I absolutely agree. This is not a single influence rather a complex system that shapes sexuality.

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11. 69

    brakel2posted 9 years ago

    I believe it is genetic and environmental. My cousin wanted a daughter but got a son. She never cut his hair, and he played only with his girl cousin. He always played with dolls and girl toys and seemed to be very feminine acting. He did not have friends who were boys and never wanted to do activities with his father that were masculine. He gradually became a homosexual. The possibility exists that his environment influenced his sexuality, but it may also have been in his genes. I just give this example to show how the environment can be influential.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for Sharing your experience.

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       peoplepower73posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Maybe what appears to be the environment, was that he was hiding his sexual preference from the beginning and then decided to come out a little at a time. Thus making it appear as if it was the environment that influenced his choices.

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       krillcoposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Yet, as a small boy, I have a similar story. I don't like sports, do watercolors and cook, design jewelry, love to decorate, and am as straight as an arrow.

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Fantastic Bill!  Will all the Macho, Muscular, Magnificent Men who are members of favorite football teams and just happen to be gay, please step forward!

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12. 71

    LoisRyan13903posted 9 years ago

    I believe that it can be genetics and/or environment.  or as the argument says "I was born this way" or "I was made this way."  I know one woman who never had any type of desire for me.  So that was probably was in her genetics.  I know another woman who was married twice to two different men.  Both these men were very mentally, emotionally and physically abusive to her.  She started dating a woman after her second divorce and has been happy ever since.  In her case I would say she was made that way.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for sharing Lois!

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    clivewilliamsposted 9 years ago

    Some are genetically imbalanced, meaning they look like one gender but act and feel like the other. Others are simply Greed, evil and a whole lotta ass loving.

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       Bronwyn Joy Ellioposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Your first grader attempt at humour simply shows not only your lack of understanding when it comes to serious matters, but your lack of general intelligence - from a proud trans woman.

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       clivewilliamsposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       no my friend, in most gay relationships you have one partner which assumes the male role. Many lesbians act and dress like men while many gay men act and dress like women. Check your facts

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Clive - you've brought into bad stereotypes. You'll find that in most gay relationships this is not the case - yes for some it's true, but MOST no. The most fem people I know r lesbian, the most masc men gay. Please check yr facts. Frm a gay woman.

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       Anna C Taylorposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Hi, lesbian woman here. I can crush your stereotypes in 4.5 seconds as both my girlfriend and I are very feminine. We wear dresses and makeup. a masculine and feminine presence in a relationship is traditional, but it isn't the only choice.

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       clivewilliamsposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Why are you women lesbians any way? What did men do to you? Please don't tell me you were born that way.  Why you always try to beat down straight people. Did you guys born from a gay or straight person?

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Clive - sorry, but I was born that way. Have no issue with men, just don't want to sleep with them! Born of straight parents and have absolutely no issue with straight. Never beaten anyone down. I just happen to be gay. Why such an issue with gays?

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Haha!  The matter of attraction ... I find some hetero men gorgeous....embarrassed to tell them and competing with the women folk brings me problems, wink wink.

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       fpherj48posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Clive..Feminine & masculine in appearance? I can wear jeans. boots & torn shirts, no make-up & work on my car, Then I can hop into my phone booth & POOF!!!  I'm 100% All woman, baby!  Guess my preference if you can?

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14. 37

    mywritingposted 9 years ago

    Homosexuality is a complex issue that no one can stand and give use the ideal answer. However, I believe there many reasons that make people go the other way.
    
    I have come to conclude genes have some contribution, if one has excess X or Y chromosomes being a man or a woman, they are bound to behave differently. He or she will have the feelings of the same sex people unwittingly.
    
    Another reason I have from my deductions is that it could come up due to the up bring. A boy child brought up in a girl-ily environment is bound to be of more girlish behaviors thus when among other boys he feels like the girl in the pack.
    
    The last of my reasons is intentionally going homosexual for economic reasons. The hardships we experience today have made people go to all lengths to survive. Others are just lazy to work while they possess free resources that can generate revenue: here I call it prostitution!

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer Jeremiah. Just as an aside - more than XY - say XXY is Klinefelter Syndrome - doesn't usually affect sexuality (from what I know..could be wrong). Economic reasons? Can you expand on that??

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15. 73

    manatita44posted 9 years ago

    I feel that each human is capable of anything, good or evil. One just need to be in an environment that makes him/her vulnerable. The point of being a homosexual, does not negate Joy, indeed some homosexuals are very spiritual people. All weaknesses are in the nature.
    
    The Soul is in Isolation from the Divine and is on its way back to the Godhead. It is propelled by desire which initially is necessary for the Soul to minimise or prevent stagnancy or decay. The journey or sojourn is essentially a search for Happiness. There are no other Goals although some may call this Love or Light or finding Self ...
    
    Each soul will walk its own Path, and some will go down the road of drugs, while others seek satisfaction in family and yet again others in homosexuality. All are experiences of a Soul which is essentially special and Divine, but just trying, through invaluable experience, to feel its way through.  We are all Gods! Hope this helps.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks, Manatita!

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       MizBejabbersposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Manatita, I don't think anyone understands what we are saying. At least you got a comment back.

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       manatita44posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       So right, Miz. So many intellectuals and scholars here. So many Masters and few disciples. Scriptures ask us to look within, but it seems easier to blame or focus on others. Love becomes impossible then! Joy to you!

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    youmegetposted 9 years ago

    The brain. Think about IQ, talents, fears etc. that are inborn.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks, Youmeget, for answering

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    Peter Grujicposted 9 years ago

    Being gay, I can tell you it is NOT because of any decision on my part. The only decision I made was to finally accept it. I had sex with women which was OK and nice but I knew there was no turning back once I had my first gay experience. Of course a small % because of things about the way they were raised but again, I feel that % is very small. I am in my 30's now and wish society was as accepting when I was 18 as society is now. Knowledge is power to use an over used phrase and I hope what you learn here empowers you in a positive way. We are all God's creation and I'm "pretty sure" he doesn't make mistakes! Take care.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer Peter. As a gay woman myself I know re cause/choice - am curious as to the views of others as to cause. I wish it was as it is now when I was 18 too - also in my 30s

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       judchuksposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       There are some other clues @ http://www.checklistmag.com/2015/10/do- … ay-in.html
       
       Chck it out and see how far it goes.

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       medopride19posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       yes

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18. 86

    DzyMsLizzyposted 9 years ago

    It has been shown, on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, in independent studies by various scientists, that it is totally genetic.
    
    There have been CT scans of the brains of both heterosexual and homosexual people, and there IS  a difference in the brain structure that shows up.
    
    The 'cause' therefore, is that they are born that way. 
    
    You can read my Hub on the topic regarding the unreasonable prejudice suffered by those whose sexual orientation differs from the so-called "normal."
    
    http://dzymslizzy.hubpages.com/hub/LGBT … ill-Abound

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer, Lizzy. Your hub is awesome!

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    passionatelearnrposted 9 years ago

    psychology and environment,in some cases biology.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer, Passionate learner.

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    CallumCharlesposted 9 years ago

    As a gay man I believe it's the three fundamental things!
    
    Having Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious fashion sense!
    Taking a spoonful of heterosexuality and making it better!
    And of course actually being allowed to feed the birds!
    
    All joking aside, the logical answer is that it's the same thing that created heterosexuality or bisexuality or even, polysexuality it's genetics.
    To believe one sexuality is more superior than another (because there are more of you) isn't fair and is totally wrong!
    
    I knew I was gay from I was 4 years old and I know it's not something you wake up one morning and decide to be or do for a job. It's life as we know it and truth be told, a bloody hard one for some people, due to the maltreatment we receive sometimes. But, when I look at my partner and my family, I am glad to be gay and lucky to have a great family and a wonderful partner.
    
    Hope my answer helps x

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer (and fantastic spelling! That word!)! As a gay woman, I am in agreeance - I'm curious as to the other thoughts out there. I'm glad you have a great family and wonderful partner.

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       CallumCharlesposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Jacqui I hope your curiously is helped with the many answers you will get here, am following this because I too, am fascinated. Lol
       The spelling is Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Lolololo

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       But Callum, what if one is infected by the -docious but not the rest.... does it make me the odd-man-out?
       Glad you can see the funny side of things.

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       CallumCharlesposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Not the odd one out Alan. I think royalty would be more appropriate, as the rest of us have the Supercalifragilisticexpiali!! Means we can't be royalty but we would be governed by his majesty King Alan of the Docious! How wonderful, Sire.

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    Gaurav Oberoiposted 9 years ago

    There are many reasons that contribute to this kind of orientation.
    
    1. When a person is frequently emotionally wounded by the people of opposite gender during childhood due to  any reason, a permanent sense of resentment and aversion prevails. This is one of the greatest causes of homosexuality.
    
    2. A person's natural development of his sense of gender (gender polarity) can change due to even a single hurtful incident by someone of opposite gender.
    
    3. Early exposure to same gender pornography.
    
    4. Hormonal dis-balance (different than hormonal imbalance).
    
    5. Sexual abuse as a child.
    
    6. Emotional imbalance due to other causes.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer Gaurav. Question - what if NONE of those things has happened, and person is gay? I'm curious.

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Getting to know a few homosexually-orientated persons as friends can take one's opinion beyond the theoretical.  Honouring the other as well as myself forms the bond of friendship.

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       Gaurav Oberoiposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       It might happen because of the conditions in which a person is brought up. In the developing countries you will find a huge number of homosexually oriented people in the economically dry areas.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       And if they are from an economically well off region? And none of those things have happened? AND the person is brought up in a family of heterosexuals..I'm just putting this out there, as a query (I know someone like this, so I'm testing yr theory!)

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    promisemposted 9 years ago

    Science has proven over and over again that all human behavior is a combination of genes, choice and environment.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Scott

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    Nell Roseposted 9 years ago

    Nothing causes homosexuality. Its purely hormonal. In the womb a baby will be flushed with estrogen or testosterone. If the balance is slightly different it will cause changes in the body structure, or hormone structure.We studied this in Psychology.
    Its nothing to do with religion, beliefs, how people think or choice. It is just normal.
    Many animals and even insects can be homosexual. Or even change sex all depending on whether there is an abundance of say females compared to males. this is also perfectly normal, and is natures way. The fact that humans have to label things is just a biproduct of evolution and in most cases ignorance, okay?

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Nell, for yr answer. I am a gay woman, so just trying to see what theories are out there. The need to label I agree is often ignorance based - if it's in a 'box' I can ignore it, fear it, or understand it.

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       ALwaysShawnaposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Nell, I believe this. Maybe  it get mixed up during the making of a boy gender or girl gender. We don't know exactly what happens. Yes I am a christian and I know what they believe. Who are we to judge, I don't know what happens I just know that th

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       MizBejabbersposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I think that those "happenings in the womb" are where some transsexuals are coming from but I don't think it explains homosexuality.. A soul that is to incarnate as a female gets a male body or  vice versa. Regardless, we should be nonjudgmental.

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       rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       well, Alan, honestly I have some close friends, relatives, in the family if you wish to know, for knowledge based on science, why to have I touched something controversial? No offense to Jacqui, this is only academic. Great discussion!

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    Shekhar Tamrakarposted 9 years ago

    the emotional touch upon one's same sex .As you know some times people often come in contact with one's own gender and starts liking him.since liking is the thing that you want someone's attention to you that feeling is good to some extent as you want your friend's attention but if this turned love towards him/her then it is termed as feeling of homosexuality

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Shekhar.

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    RedPowerposted 9 years ago

    It's probably not directly genetic (maybe one can have a genetic pre-disposition, but not a guaranteed tendency toward homosexuality from pure genetics), and I say this because as of now no gene or set of genes have been isolated that are known to cause someone to be homosexual. (Since identical twins often have the same sexual orientation, though, there is probably *some* genetic component that at least makes it more likely that a person is straight or gay.)
    
    Probably, it is something biological. Perhaps it has to do with hormones before birth or even after. Though I can't say for certain--and no one can currently--because a cause for homosexuality has not been isolated.
    
    A little off-topic, but for those who get snippy with people about these sorts of questions (I have friends who do and have noticed some of it here) and say, "Nobody ever asks what makes someone *heterosexual*!" I have to say that nobody asks that because it's clearly the "default" setting to like people of the opposite sex. If it wasn't, the world wouldn't be as populated. Bisexuality aside, someone who is *exclusively homosexual* is an outlier, a very uncommon statistic, something like 4% of the population. If there's a certain way of being that nearly everyone is (almost everyone is heterosexual or bisexual), then it stands to reason that first and foremost people would be curious about why a certain portion of the population is into strictly non-procreative sex with strictly people of the same sex. People try to turn this into like a political thing, but it's not; it's a reasonable curiosity, and no amount of political correctness will change the fact that it is not the norm to be homosexual. (And there's nothing wrong with being different.)
    
    Anyway, that's besides the point, but TLDR: I don't think any one thing makes someone gay, but almost certainly it's biological (though probably not genetic, or at least not entirely).

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer

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    Hillary Gurneyposted 9 years ago

    I grew up with my cousin who is gay.  Having him being close in age with me is pretty awesome.  He told me when we were 16 how he's scare to tell his father.  He had told me he had no problem to embrace it.  He knew he was different from our cousins and his brother.  I hate to label people because of their sexuality.  We're all humans and we all do the same thing to try and deal with life and make a living.  I personally don't think it has anything to do with genetic, but the person themselves.  I hope you have found the answers you've been looking for Jacqui!  I'm sorry if mine answer wasn't straight forward.  Have a lovely day!

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Hillary. As a gay woman, I'm not looking for an answer as to why I'm gay - I know. But I am curious as to what other people think causes it.

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       MizBejabbersposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Sorry, it went under the wrong post. Excuse the ring.

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    Introchannelposted 9 years ago

    Really good question. I always looked at it this way. Life has to have variety in it. If everything was exactly the same then the world wouldn't really be the world would it? of course there has to be gays, lesbians, transgenders, because to me life is not just black and white. There are a lot of gray areas and homosexuality is just one of them.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Interesting thinking, thanks for sharing!

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    DavyCrockettposted 9 years ago

    I am also curious about what makes people gay. I think it has a lot to do with sociology and psychology. It is known that wealthy societies tend to have a larger percentage of gay people. Why could wealth be a factor? All people need to feel needed. If a person is not getting enough affection from their family growing up then they will look elsewhere to have it fulfilled. The same goes for adults who are gay. In many wealthy societies there is a lack of affection and usually a sense of false fulfillment from money/status. I think the more divided the sexes get the more homosexuality will grow. If you know someone of the opposite sex and are attracted to them please simply tell them. If someone has had a bad upbringing it could mean the world to them to hear you are attracted to them.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Davy

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    Kryssy OSullivanposted 9 years ago

    I apologize ahead of time, if I'm all over the place... I'm "closeted" to most people, and do wonder if that is why I never have a set train of thought on this subject... Anywho.
    
    I'm not 100% sure, but I wonder if I'm not "straight" because of the home I came from. I'm not saying I'm rebellious, don't get me wrong. But I always knew I was very open minded, maybe too opened minded, for people. The home I grew up in was quite close minded, and yet, it wasn't too religious. (I feel free to note that, because I feel that some may jump to assume that religion is a cause.)
    
    I really don't classify myself as "gay/lesbian" or as "homosexual". I hate labeling things, because in life, everything is fluid and changes. Who we are yesterday, isn't who we are today, is what I believe.
    And I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe I was placed in this kind of place/position in life for a reason? I don't know.
    
    I don't have one set interest in a man or a woman. I'm open to both, and everyone in between. Which I realized this when I was younger and have hidden. From then, being open minded just flowed for me. It was the way I found myself happiest. So maybe I guess to say... I'm just following what makes me happy.
    
    So maybe I owe not being "straight" being as my pursuit of happiness, if that makes sense. And maybe it could be the same for others, as well.
    Just... No set cause. Just happiness and strength.
    
    (And hey, maybe DNA and the whole bit with our genes makes sense. But we are who we are, and we all play a part in this colorful, unique world. I don't see the point to change it in ways that are temporary solutions such as getting into psych. situations and specialists. There is nothing wrong with accepting who we are, and that takes a lot of strength.)
    
    In all, why should humans be uniform, when most/all of life on this Earth is not?
    
    (I'd go on, but I think I'll stop my rambling here. lol )

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       peoplepower73posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I think you hit the nail right on the head.  You should always follow you bliss and only you really know what that is.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer, Kryssy.

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    John Colarussoposted 9 years ago

    It just happens, it is natural, just as natural as heterosexuality. It shows up in other species, proving that they can't choose it cause they don't have the cognitive ability to make choices like that. It is just who you're attracted too. It just happens

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer, John.

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    Max Harmonposted 9 years ago

    It comes from the imagination.  From the imagination is from where it comes.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Wonder if you'd like to expand on that - it's a little vague. Thanks for your answer though.

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    Kelly008posted 9 years ago

    I think homosexuality is a thing that comes by nature to you after words its the atmosphere that makes it grow. I have seen many people involved in homosexuality and it is more sever than the normal sex.
    
    The awareness plays a big role as well. The more you are aware of these terms the more you indulge in these activities. So it doesn't have anything with religion it is everywhere in every religion. Some support these activities some of them condemns and give punishments.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your answer, Safeer

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    inspiritinoneposted 9 years ago

    I sure would like to know this: If homesexuality is really based on FEELING, sex partners and YOUR Sex Equipment,...Isnt there more to your life than that? How you feel about whats between your legs is so important that it makes you feel like a complete, fullfilled human being?
    
    What I saw, what I heard for years was that sex was for having pleasure making babie. Now Sex is for identifing the type of human you are. AND SEX is doing the IDENTIFING and Sex starts with a FEELING.....and feeling can change and its been proven that feeling can be controled!
    
    The truth is, WE AS A PEOPLE, ARE GREATER THAN OUR FEELING.and if we listen more to our hearts, and less to the private parts we would find a more fullfilled life. The truth of ourselves is hidden in ourselves....in our hearts. And we know we are there when peace comes in the knowing of what we are to do in this life.
    
    What is so important about expressing your sexuality to the world? It aint cool for Hetrosexuals do it. And it aint cool for who-ever does it. And please dont blame it on SOCIETY. We know its not perfect. But here in the US, you are not locked in to a type of behavior. Unless your scared.
    
    I would like to know if being homesexual is more than what you feel about sex with another person? You fight so hard for your right to be.....its got to be more that SEX?
    
    And dont erase this. Let it stand for afew days. Lets hear your true answer to this and Hear what you THINK.....not FEEL.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Very much more than sex + for some, it's nothing 2 do with sex AT ALL. Inspirit - I'll ask you do 1 thing - imagine a world where yr orientation was minority - see how u'd feel. Also, look around - hetero PDA is everywhere. (Nt enuf space 4 answer)

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Inspiritinone, you presumably conduct your in that standard, 100%.  Congratulations!
       You speak of the heart as though it's used for thinking and feeling!!
       And btw, if it was not fun no one would do it and there would be no babies....hetero- or homo-

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    DWDavisRSLposted 9 years ago

    I don't have an answer to your question but if you indeed have a sincere interest, you might want to read this study:
    
    http://www.mygenes.co.nz/summary.htm
    
    These folks appear to have made an intense and complete examination of the available evidence and summarized it quite well.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       DW - thanks for your answer and the link. I've had a read (an I think own the kindle version) - they mention 'change therapy' isn't harmful....yet it is proven to be so, even Exodus owner admitted such. I'll have to read more. Thanks

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    Whidbeywriterposted 9 years ago

    This is a very interesting question considering I have a daughter who prefers to love women over men. I used to think that praying to God would help, that somehow he would change her mind and thoughts about her choices in sexual partners.  Perhaps this was just a phase she was going through. She told us of her feelings when she was in High School so it's been many years ago, since she is 38 now. I guess as a mom, I felt I had lost my little girl because she also didn't like wearing dresses as a kid, but I didn't think much about it at the time.   I am a Christian woman who loves God and my beautiful daughter very much.  So as you can imagine it's been a struggle for me, at least it was at first, but when I finally accepted her the way she is, things began to become clearer and make more sense to me.  God still loves her very much and I will always believe in my heart that he loves everyone no matter what sexual preference they may have. My daughter is in a beautiful relationship with someone and I only see happiness and love between them. I can only speculate as to why she is this way, so I will not comment on that because, as others have stated in this forum there could be numerous reasons and I am not sure what they are.  But I will say that she is a much happier person and is so comfortable with herself as the person she is now then when she had to hide it from us. My prayers now are that she one day will find peace with God and she will let Him into her heart!

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Mary - thank you for your story about yr daughter, and your acceptance and love of her regardless. If only all parents were like you!.

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       Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       A good friend of mine had a brother (he has since passed) who was gay. He did a lot of work in the church. Since they live in the Deep South, I found this strange. She said he did not have a partner; in other words, he squelched it.

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    Poetry In Mindposted 9 years ago

    Hello there, I am new to hubpages I thought I should share my thoughts on this subject. I myself am gender confused, I guess that's what people call it. Though I know quite well I am neither woman or man. I knew when I was very young I was different, I wasn't really attracted to either sex. I never felt like a girl or boy. I thought I was sick or something worse. I also didn't date until I hit high school even then I wasn't really attracted sexualy to my partner, it was more of a fascination to his personality and that we shared interests. I feel that everyone is beautiful and attractive. I did think for awhile that I was gay but later after starting dating that changed. Though I do not feel that I am either man or woman. I have also had hormonal issues since I was a kid but I'm not really 1000% convinced that's why I feel like I do. There's more to it than that. Plus I have cousins who are gay and bisexual and they would say it's not their choice just like myself and my gender. Also if animals can be bi or gay like dogs and cats, I grew up with animals and they all can go either way on the sexaul type. Can't humans? We are part of the animal kingdom, we're mammals so are dogs and cats.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Amanda, for sharing your story and your opinion.

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       MizBejabbersposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Good point, Amanda. I had a bisexual cat. or maybe it was cats. If a female wasn't around, his brother would do. His brother didn't seem to mind. BTW they had both been neutered, but they were still sexually active.

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    Kylyssaposted 9 years ago

    I believe that sexual orientation is determined by a combination of genes and the biological environment of the uterus a person develops inside of. The brain is a part of the body and almost no one disputes that genes and the fetal environment have profound effects on the development of the human body.
    
    Genetically speaking, I see it as little different from being left or right-handed. The difference between a right-handed person and a left-handed person is not in their hands; it's in their brains. Both are completely normal.
    
    Some genes may produce brains that fall in love more readily with men and some genes may produce brains that fall more readily in love with women. Some people might even get both man-loving and woman-loving genes and develop brains that can fall in love with either gender. All of these combinations could provide different tools for species survival from an evolutionary perspective.
    
    Then there's the womb environment to consider. Hormones affect the reproductive organs quite powerfully and visibly in early fetal development, but they also affect brain development. It's entirely probable that maternal hormones influence mate radar in developing brains.
    
    I don't see sexual orientation as primarily a sex thing, but rather as a mating thing. A young, horny person would probably be able to enjoy themselves sexually with either gender if they were deprived long enough. Throughout history, gay men have sired offspring because they could manage to have sex with women. Plenty of heterosexual men and women in prisons have  sought members of their own sex for sexual comfort and release, too.  But I think falling in love is a different story and I think it's the most important one.
    
    Perhaps it's possible for a gay man to fall madly in love with a woman, but it's unlikely under normal circumstances when plenty of nice gay men are available and it's socially acceptable to date them. I think it's just as unlikely as it would be for a heterosexual man to fall madly in love with a man under normal circumstances when plenty of nice women are available. I don't think we get to consciously choose who we fall in love with.
    
    I base my beliefs about sexual orientation on my understanding of human biology and brain development. I base my appreciation of people in love with each other on my mother's influence. She believed love was the most precious thing in the world,something to be nurtured and appreciated, and I think she was right.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Klyssa. A lot to think on, thank you for sharing

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    stuff4kidsposted 9 years ago

    As a former biologist, I can say categorically that homosexual behavior is ubiquitous and useful throughout nature. It is present in all primate species (including us obviously) and most other mammals to some degree. So, what causes homosexuality? Precisely the same natural, evolutionary forces which drive all outcomes of the sexual spectrum. Easy. 

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Amanda! Succinctly put!

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       RLWalker LMposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       But how can it be driven by evolution when homosexuality by definition is excluded from reproduction?

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       Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       It's not like lesbians got a pass on getting sold as wives in the past and it's not like gay men can't father children. Also, species survival always trumps individual survival. A basic course in evolutionary biology might help you understand.

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       RLWalker LMposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       That doesn't explain the function of homosexuality to present an evolutionary incentive. It seems what you're saying is the homosexual gene made it through the door via surrogate mothers and bride buying. We are talking about "forces" and drivers.

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       Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       RL Walker - homosexuality is nature's form of population control. That is why it is found in all primates.

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       RLWalker LMposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Search for a video on youtube "is homesexuality natures form of population control", by Richard Dawkins, a video I watched just now which validates my first comment exactly.

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       Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       It's not like women got to choose whether or not to have children until the last century. It didn't matter whether you were gay or not, society forced breeding on you. A 100 years is nothing to evolutionary timescales.

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       rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I agree with the comment of RLWalker, in evolutionary terms homosexuality is a dead end is a kind of "genetic drift" does not contribute to the gene pool of alleles(sex cells) of interbreeding individuals for they don't mate?So what is the advantage?

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       RLWalker LMposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Kylyssa do you suppose other primates had arranged marriages?
       Also, reproduction is one aspect of evolution. For a trait to survive it has to be advantageous. The only advantage presented here is population control, which the video addresses.

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        Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Women being forced to breed - I had not thought of that. Perhaps that's why we don't know how many lesbians there are; for the most part they're ignored.  It's also easier for them to hide, by being "spinster roommates".

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        jlparkposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        As a gay woman (lesbian) and a mother - being gay is not necessarily a stop to reproduction - so in humans it's not an evolutionary dead end. In animals, consent isn't an issue - a homosexual animal can be forced to breed by others.

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        rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Yes, that's true in the animal world,  but HUMANS are not animals? for what I know "to breed" is to produce sons and daughters. Homosexuals don't,  but they could be surrogate mothers or fathers? Right?

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        jlparkposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Homosexual people are the same as heterosexual - they have the same reproductive organs as anyone of their physical gender, and it works the same, it just takes a bit more effort.I am gay + have a child + did not use nor have I ever been a surrogate

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        rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Jacqui, it's different in heterosexuals, there is a true mother (female)and a father(male), have children by way of reproduction, In homosexuals-(male-male sex, female-female sex) to have children  just adopt so biologically not your's?Reproduction?

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        jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Rodrigo, I am curious to know if you make those statements on the basis of your first-hand knowledge (in other words, you have met and got to know many homosexual couples), or whether your opinion is based on belief and/or theory.

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        stuff4kidsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        In terms of evolution, an allele associated with homosexuality may be reproductively advantageous when recessive in a heterozygote, as opposed to a homozygote. Alleles associated with sexuality are ubiquitous. It's the combinations that count.

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        Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        @RLWalker LM
        You think that female apes got to refuse males that mounted them?Human beings haven't even cared about consent in any large percentages until the last 100 years and there are still plenty of people alive who don't.

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        RLWalker LMposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Well after reading an article or two it seems there are evolutionary mechanisms that could drive homosexuality.

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        rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Hi, Amanda, don't you think homosexuals have "selfish genes" Why?don't breed, so no contribution to the gene pool of interbreeding individuals, they kept their genes to themselves no offspring? reduced the genetic load  important for evolution?

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        Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        @Rodrigo Sebidos Why do you keep maintaining that  gay people are infertile? Gay sex doesn't produce offspring but gay people can, do, and have. Now they can do it voluntarily and with medical assistance if necessary if they live somewhere civilized.

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        jlparkposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Rod - my daughter is biologically mine, and I'm gay. If she isn't genetically related to my wife, isn't any ones business but ours. I carried the child for 9mths. Adoption not necessary. Yr thinking is flawed becus gayaren't infertile just becus gay.

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        rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Jacqui, sorry I was not able to read ur last thrd, good u open ds up, a new thinking,  clarifyng male-male,female-female sex=homosexual?no offsrng f u gave birth to a child, then ur heterosexual at the beginning but a lesbian orientation? Go deeper!

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        Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        @Rodrigo How does getting inseminated make a gay woman heterosexual? Getting sperm in her uterus won't magically make her able to fall in love with a man.

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        stuff4kidsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Hi Rodrigo. Your question betrays a common (and perfectly understandable) lack of detailed knowledge of genetics & evolution. But it's a knowledge gap I can't fill in this format. Answer this: what *causes* heterosexuality?

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        jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        What causes "sexuality?"   The ability to enjoy it!   Otherwise neither we nor any other animal/bird/fish/insect would voluntarily engage in it. 
        Maybe it's the god/guilt complex we have been fed from childhood that makes us so confused.

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        rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Alan, I hope this is not ur final assessment, trying to connect with Kylyssa and Amanda, the term homo vs hetero. in the context of sexuality, in hetero= (male-female sex)have chdren. in homo-oriented females(lesbian) hve husbnd=chldren? Go deeper!

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        jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Rodrigo, back to my previous question....what forms the basis of your knowledge about hetero- and homo- sexuality?   Do you have a problem?  Are you trying to prove a point?  I am gay, period.  Would you want to change me?

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        jlparkposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Rod - just because some1 is gay does not make them infertile. I have never been with a man, yet have been pregnant + have a child, + will have a notha. Reproducing as a gay person is just a little more clinical. Str8 couples use same tech at times 2

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        Kylyssaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Prior to the last century, gay people mostly had to pretend to be hetero and breed. It did not change lesbians' or gay men's genes to have sex they didn't want. Now gay people can voluntarily have the kids they want with a friend and a device.

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        rodrigo sebidosposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Thanks, Jacqui and Kylyssa for clarifying it. Now I know.

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    Kingsley Iyokeposted 9 years ago

    i think it's just how they felt naturally from birth. It wasn't caused by anything

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Kingsley for sharing.

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       fpherj48posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Kingsley...I love your simple answer, because it IS this simple.  Peace, Paula

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    greeneyedblondieposted 9 years ago

    I've wondered this myself for a while. I think it has to do with the brain and how it's developed in the uterus. I listened to one woman explain in depth how and when she knew she was a lesbian. She said she just always knew. When princesses in movies and TV shows she watched as a 3 and 4 year old had their princes rescue them she was asking, "Where is my princess to rescue?" in that sense. She also joked she was sewing a queer (her word) flag when she was in utero.
    
    How I knew I was straight? I got my first crush on a boy in 2nd grade named Torrey. Then again, I was raised with only straight people. It was expected that one day I would marry a man. I didn't even know other sexualities existed until I was in 8th grade and later (and I'm 18). I wonder if people who are only raised in straight environments like I was who are queer (gay, lesbian, bisexual, etc...) are confused or scared. An interesting concept.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Greeneyedblondie. I was raised with many straight people, but never felt the same as they did. When I finally knew the word to describe me, something clicked, bt was never confused - supportive family. Thanks for yr answer.

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       Say Yes To Lifeposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Up until age 10, I got only same sex crushes.  If I knew about homosexuality, I would have thought I was gay.  To this day, during football / basketball games, I care more about watching the cheerleaders than the game.  But I am straight.

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    Nudistguyincoposted 9 years ago

    It's really simple. It's not a choice. We are born either homosexual or heterosexual or bisexual at birth. It is not something we can choose. I am heterosexual and not at all attracted to a man, but can enjoy sex with a man even  though I'm not attracted to them. And I couldn't choose to be gay if I wanted to. So the simple answer is, it's simply how we are born and is not a choice.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Nudistguyinco,

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       My Esotericposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Exactly!  When I see 2 males being intimate, I get an unbidden sense of revulsion which I must use my ability to reason to overcome & accept what I am not seeing (I look away) is natural for them, just as is my attraction to females is natural to

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    My Esotericposted 9 years ago

    There is no "belief", per se, involved anymore.  Science (and common sense) is clear that sexual orientation is genetically-based and can only be modified at the fringes by choice.
    
    That is not to say there aren't those who tend toward masochism won't choose to act like gays, if they enjoy being ostracized by family, friends, and strangers; but I suspect they are few and far between.

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    MizBejabbersposted 9 years ago

    I believe that it is, in must cases, soul deep. I believe in reincarnation, and sometimes when a soul has numerous female incarnations, that soul is not ready to incarnate into a male body, and thus has problems with sexuality when it does. And vice versa. I did not choose my sexuality; it just happened. I am a heterosexual female, but I have enough of the male instinct left over in my soul that I was not a "natural mother." I refused to breast feed my children, and I had problems with the mothering instinct. I didn't choose to be that way. It took me years to get over giving my husband children when I didn't want to.
    There may be some genetics involved or some hormones while still in the womb involved, and they may cause some indecision on sexuality on the part of the person, but I believe that the soul always wins out in the end. That is why you hear of so many people announcing to his or her partner that they want to end the hetrosexual relationship to be with a person of the same sex. This includes married persons with children.
    And this is why we should not judge others because of their sexuality. We are what our souls bring into this world, and if you are a Christian, we are what God made us.

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       Nicholas Kanposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       I am a Buddhist but I believes in your theory too. There are many things science cannot yet explain. As an example, the things beyond black hole. And people did not believe microorganism existed long ago before microscope were invented.OPEN YOUR MIND

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    Dr Billy Kiddposted 9 years ago

    I think that the question itself is outdated. What do you think?

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       Kylyssaposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       People's beliefs shape their behavior, so what people currently believe about homosexuality is relevant to our society in 2015. If you read the answers you'll see they are by no means uniform.

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       Dr Billy Kiddposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Sorry about being so abrupt. I've lived with gays all my life and I never thought of even asking the question "Why?" And I went to a Renewal Jewish Synagogue that openly accepted transsexuals.So maybe Kylyssa is right--it's all about your experiences

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Billy - I (the asker) am gay - and am curious as to the thoughts still out there in this day and age...unfortunately it should be outdated, but as you can see - there are some interesting thoughts out there. Gonna be a fun one to write up!

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    Jack Lopenaposted 9 years ago

    It's sad that people look at homosexuality and heterosexuality in a way that racists look at different-colored people. Though I do not advocate living in or getting married with the same sex, I strongly disapprove of how lesbians and gays are being treated. Let's not look at them like they were different people because they aren't. This is the kind of lifestyle they've chosen so let's respect what they want. Given time, people will understand the burden they bear. But do remember that a lot of these people succeed in life far more than any average earning employee. So give them credit for at least being able to work hard and not because of what they've chosen to become.

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for caring Joachim.  Some might consider it choice.  But for me it's the total absence of sexual interest in the female form....not a choice.

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       Jack Lopenaposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       could be. XD or they got tired of the same "prawns and lobsters" and preferred "sandwiches" instead. XD seriously, the interest in female form somewhat became a reason...either that or they wanted to try something new.

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       Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       JM: "not because of what they've CHOSEN to become." You've said it ALL! "Choice" in which 1 does not use "control" which is only thg differentiating us fm animals. Yes, "Given time, people will understand the burden they bear" but hope not 2 late

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    krillcoposted 9 years ago

    I believe our sexuality is purely genetic.

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       krillcoposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       And would like to add that 'gay' is not a genetic mistake or aberration; it is intended by Nature, blessed by God. Berdache/Two Spirit/Spiritual Gift to others.

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       My Esotericposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Regarding the "mistake" disparagement; consider that if it were a genetic mistake, the occurrences of homosexuality would be much, much rarer that what is experienced today.  If homosexuality is a genetic mistake, so is the rarer left-handedness.

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       Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Wm: (Homosexuality) "... is intended by Nature, blessed by God?" What Scripture says this?  If not in Scripture, NOT TRUTH!

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       krillcoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       A  very good article: http://news.sciencemag.org/biology/2015 … ations-dna

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       Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Wm:  Sorry!  If not WORD, not interested!  Men LIE!  I'm a "believer!" Only GOD doesn't LIE (Num 23:19)!

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    Samuel Albinposted 9 years ago

    nothing causes it, sometimes its just how people are wired.  some people like chocolate more than others.  Some people like painting more than others.  Some people are just wired to be attracted towards someone the same gender as them.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Samuel for your answer

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    Get Thin for Goodposted 9 years ago

    I believe that the most predominant reason is that many gay people have been abused as children, or rejected by a parent. I deduced this from the years I spent crisis counseling people.
    
    Having said that, I do not know about people who have "abnormal" sexual parts.

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks for your sharing your opinion Claire

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       Get Thin for Goodposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       My pleasure Jacqui :-)

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       Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Claire: I agree that MOST have suffered "traumatic experiences!"  However, instead of "leaning on Jesus," they run to sin "hating God" for having "allowed it!"  Don't they know they r vessels for "His Glory?"  What a testimony they would have!

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       jlparkposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Still doesn't explain the huge amount of us that haven't had traumatic experiences or why people who have trauma and don't turn to God still aren't gay, Norine. If it caused it, it would have to happen every time, and it doesnt

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       Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Jacq: Yes, could b "innate" but we r ABOVE animals w/ability 2 "control" sexual feelings or marriage would NEVER work! Does 1 exercise"control"n same sex marriage?Writing HUB, find out MAJORITY'S reason, traumatic v innate! Love sinner,hate the sin

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       jlparkposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       One exercises control in any marriage except an abusive one, Norine. Just becaus a person is homosexual doesn't not mean they lack control. I am writing the hub, I'll post it here when it's done.

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    lisavollrathposted 9 years ago

    To me, this question is like asking "what causes green eyes" or "what causes red hair". Some little difference in our genetic makeup causes those things.
    
    Unlike green eyes and red hair, variations in sexual orientation are not readily visible. Wouldn't it be so much easier of it came with a birthmark, or some physical indication, so parents, doctors, and the person themselves could just know? Along with "she's going to be tall, like her father", we could also say "she's going to be a lesbian when she grows up".

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    rose2016posted 9 years ago

    I belive overall homosexuality is caused:
    1. The up bringing- I believe this influences homosexuality as these people may be faced with the same during the upbringing.
    2. The nature- People may choose and feel this way. Some people may not think this is normal but it is a choice you make.
    3. Brain structure- These people think differently and their brain is structured differently due to the things they have been brought up to face.
    Sometimes there may not be a cause just simply love and affection for those of the same sex.
    hope this helps,
    Rose2016 xx

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Rose2016, how can the factor of "upbringing" apply when so many individuals live through early hell trying to keep it a secret from non-accepting parents and community?
       Your end paragraph is your enlightened understanding.

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       Kylyssaposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       All of the gay teens I took into my home after they were kicked out of their homes by gay-hating parents came from conservative religious families. Are you saying a conservative religious upbringing creates homosexuality?

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       jlparkposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       And please explain how upbringing produces 7 straight siblings and one gay rather than all gay if it's upbringing. Genuinely curious.

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       jonnycomelatelyposted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Rose2016, regardless of this early feedback, please don't be put off from good discussion.
       Welcome to HubPages.   This is where conflicting ideas can get well aired and ironed out.

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       rose2016posted 9 years agoin reply to this

       Thankyou, it is just simply a thing of choice. Some people are attracted to men and some women its a natural thing and should be undestanded and you should not be discriminated against, rose2016 xx

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       Norine Williamsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I was born Black as u may have been born homo yet "we all have our "cross" to bear!"  Didn't succumb to society's "stinking thinking" thru education! Gays must do same "control" "feelings" to eliminate "cross" or "immature!" 
       
       Jacq: I hope MO help

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