Is being LGBTQ+ biological? Explore the intricate relationship between genetics, sexual orientation and sexual orientation identity.
The debate on whether genetic predisposition influences someone’s identity, particularly in terms of sexual orientation an and gender identity, is a complex and ongoing matter. While many studies identify a link between someone’s sexuality or gender identity and DNA, others believe the two have no connection. Many scientists argue that while the exact cause of someone’s sexual orientation is unknown, they theorize that it is likely a result of a combination of environmental, hormonal, and genetic influences. Because of this, they believe that it is not a choice.
Sexual Orientation Vs. Sexual Orientation Identity
Understanding the differences between the sexual orientation and sexual orientation identity will help distinguish whether or not they can change.
- Sexual orientation is stable and unlikely to change in one’s life.
- Sexual orientation identity may change throughout someone’s life and not always align with their biological sex or actual sexual orientation.
The American Psychological Association provides insight by stating that “sexual orientation is not a choice that can be changed at will, and sexual orientation is most likely the result of a complex interaction of environmental, cognitive and biological factors…is shaped at an early age… [and evidence suggests] biological, including genetic or inborn hormonal factors, play a significant role in a person’s sexuality. Sexual orientation identity—not sexual orientation—appears to change via psychotherapy, support groups, and life events.”
XQ28 Chromosome
The XQ28 Chromosome, a genetic marker and chromosome band at the top of the X chromosome, has been studied for over 40 years relating to gender identity and sexual orientation. One study by Dean Hamer links this marker with male sexual orientation. He looked at 114 families of gay men in the United States and found large rates of homosexuality in the maternal uncles and cousins, but not in the paternal side of the family. This suggests that there may be linked genes associated with the X chromosome, as males inherit their X chromosome from their mothers.
Nerve Cells and Sex Hormones
A study led by John Theisen discovered that a panel of genes may have a biological basis for gender dysphoria, where someone believes their gender is opposite of what their biological sex is. This gene panel includes DNA involved in nerve cell development and how sex hormones are manufactured in the body. The study states: “Researchers believe the findings add weight to the idea that transgender people have fundamental differences in their brains and biochemistry that leads to gender dysphoria. We believe that the study lends legitimacy to the idea that transgender is not a choice, as some argue, but “a way of being.”
Many of these studies are still in the early research phase, sparking curiosity about the link between DNA and sexual orientation or sexual orientation identity. While many believe there is a connection, there is no particular gene that can determine someone’s sexual orientation. Instead, a combination of factors leads to a connection between sexual orientation and genetics.
While the research continues to evolve, it’s clear that the relationship between genetics and sexual orientation is multifaceted. Whether a definitive link will ever be established remains an open question, but the current body of work provides valuable insights into the complexity of human sexuality and identity.
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This articles aims to provide you with factual information to help you form your own opinion.
FAQs
What affects someone’s sexual orientation?
Medical experts believe that sexual orientation is a mix of psychological, environmental, and biological factors. Many others believe that someone’s genes and hormones play a major role too. Many medical professionals believe that sexual orientation isn’t something that a person chooses, instead, it is a natural part of who someone is.
What is sexual orientation?
Sexual orientation refers to who someone is attracted to and/or wants to have relationships with. Some common sexual orientations include: straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, or asexual, to name a few. Sexual orientation is different than gender and gender identity as the latter refers to who someone is (male, female, non-binary, genderqueer, etc.) and not who they are attracted to.
Do genes affect gender identity?
The gender identity of someone is the final result of their genetics and hormones. Male sex determination has long been correlated to the presence of a Y chromosome. However, research shows that this is only part of the truth. In addition to this chromosome, other genes may influence the determination of sex in an individual. As you can see, this matter can be complicated and requires extensive research on the Y chromosome and its origin and evolution to get clearer answers.