Heterosexual

Definition

Heterosexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by romantic and/or sexual attraction to individuals of a different sex or gender. It is one of the main sexual orientations, along with homosexuality and bisexuality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Heterosexuality is the most common sexual orientation, with the majority of the population identifying as heterosexual.
2. Heterosexual individuals are typically attracted to and form romantic/sexual relationships with members of the opposite sex or gender.
3. Heterosexuality is considered a natural and normal sexual orientation in many societies, though the social acceptance of non-heterosexual orientations has increased in recent decades.
4. Heterosexual relationships and marriage have traditionally been the socially and legally recognized form of intimate partnership in most cultures.
5. The term 'heterosexual' was coined in the late 19th century as a way to categorize and describe this particular sexual orientation.

Review Questions

• Explain how the concept of heterosexuality is connected to the topic of sexual behavior.
  • Heterosexuality, as the predominant sexual orientation, is closely tied to the topic of sexual behavior. Heterosexual individuals engage in sexual and romantic activities with members of the opposite sex or gender. This includes behaviors such as dating, sexual intercourse, and forming long-term committed relationships. Understanding heterosexuality is crucial in the broader context of studying human sexual behavior and the diversity of sexual orientations and expressions.
• Analyze how the societal norms and expectations surrounding heterosexuality may influence an individual's sexuality and gender identity.
  • The pervasive societal norms and expectations of heteronormativity, which assume heterosexuality as the default and preferred sexual orientation, can significantly influence an individual's sexuality and gender identity. These norms may lead to the marginalization or stigmatization of non-heterosexual identities, and pressure individuals to conform to heterosexual standards. This can impact an individual's self-acceptance, expression of their true identity, and their experiences within social and institutional structures that privilege heterosexuality.
• Evaluate the potential impact of the heterosexual norm on the overall understanding and acceptance of diverse sexualities and gender identities within a given society or culture.
  • The widespread assumption of heterosexuality as the societal norm can have far-reaching implications on the understanding and acceptance of diverse sexualities and gender identities. This heteronormative perspective can contribute to the invisibility, misunderstanding, and even discrimination of LGBTQ+ individuals. It may limit the representation and inclusion of non-heterosexual identities in various social, cultural, and institutional contexts. Challenging and deconstructing the heterosexual norm is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and affirming environment for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Related terms

Sexual Orientation:

An individual's emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction to other people, typically classified as heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual.

Cisgender:

A person whose gender identity and expression matches the sex they were assigned at birth.

Heteronormativity: The assumption that heterosexuality is the default, normal, or preferred sexual orientation.