6: Sexuality and Sexual Orientation
- Page ID
- 306932
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- 6.1: Learning Objectives
- This page outlines the learning objectives for the chapter "Sexuality and Sexual Orientation".
- 6.2: Introduction
- This page provides a brief introduction to the chapter “Sexuality and Sexual Orientation” and highlights the key topics that will be explored.
- 6.3: Sexual Orientation as a Spectrum
- This page examines sexual orientation as a spectrum, including changing patterns of attraction and identity, the Kinsey Scale, and LGBTQIA+ identities. It critiques conversion therapy and emphasizes the diversity and fluidity of human sexuality.
- 6.4: Glossary of Sexual Orientation and Related Terms
- This page offers a glossary of terms related to sexual orientation.
- 6.5: Patterns of LGBTQ+ Identification
- In 2024, a record 9.3% of U.S. adults identified as LGBTQ+, with identification especially high among younger generations. Identification also varies by gender, political orientation, and geographic location. The page also examines moral panics surrounding increased LGBTQ+ visibility, including claims that young people are being "recruited" into LGBTQ+ identities and the role of media narratives in amplifying these fears.
- 6.6: Heteronormativity and Cisnormativity
- This page explores heteronormativity and cisnormativity, explaining their marginalization of LGBTQ+ identities. This page also explores historical understandings of sexuality.
- 6.7: The Lavender Scare, Stonewall, and the Policing of Sexuality
- This page examines the historical context of LGBTQ+ policing in the U.S., focusing on the Lavender Scare and the Stonewall Riots. It also explores police relations with the LGBTQ+ community today.
- 6.8: LGBTQ+ Activism, Pride, and Queer Joy
- This page examines the Stonewall Riots as a turning point in U.S. LGBTQ+ activism, including the emergence of Pride marches and the Stonewall National Monument. It also considers ongoing debates over LGBTQ+ visibility and representation and explores the resources available to support the LGBTQ+ community.
- 6.9: The HIV/AIDS Pandemic
- This page discusses the HIV/AIDS pandemic's impact on queer communities, especially gay men, highlighting initial government neglect and the rise of grassroots activism like ACT UP. Advances in treatment have made HIV manageable, enabling healthier living. Public figures have worked to reduce stigma and foster education about HIV.
- 6.10: LGBTQ+ Families, Family Acceptance, and Family Rejection
- This page emphasizes the importance of family acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals, detailing how rejection can harm emotional health while support enhances self-esteem and resilience. It introduces the concept of "chosen families" as crucial support when biological families are unsupportive. The page also covers the challenges LGBTQ+ parents face when coming out to their children and the dynamics of gay and lesbian stepfamilies.
- 6.11: LGBTQ+ Youth, Families, and Inclusion in Schools
- This page discusses the obstacles LGBTQ+ youth encounter in schools due to prevailing heteronormative and cisnormative attitudes, resulting in exclusion and inequality. It emphasizes the necessity for supportive school environments to promote mental health and academic achievement, while calling for inclusive policies.
- 6.12: Marriage Equality
- This page discusses the 2015 Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage in the U.S. and granted legal rights to LGBTQ+ couples. While this was a major advancement for equality, it also emphasizes that marriage equality does not eliminate discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Ongoing issues such as bias in employment, housing, and healthcare persist.
- 6.13: Conclusion
- This page provides concluding remarks for the chapter “Sexuality and Sexual Orientation” and highlights the key ideas and themes covered throughout the chapter.
Acknowledgments
I am very grateful to Chabot College student Derek Lumagui for reviewing this chapter draft and providing thoughtful feedback from a student perspective.
Thumbnail Attribution
Chapter header image: Progress Pride flag by Daniel Quasar. Used under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 for noncommercial use. Source: Progress Initiative.


