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Sexual Orientation and Identity

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Abstract

This paper focuses on the process of sexual orientation, as well as personal and social identity

formation, with an analysis of historical antecedents, social effects, and clinical and theological

reflections. Here, we explore the concept of sexual orientation, how it is evaluated, and the use of

affirmative therapy; in equal regard, we reiterate disapproval of practices such as conversion

therapy. In the current paper, various stances within the Christian community range from the

orthodox to the more liberal and accepting. It stresses the need for the larger church to embrace

and affirm the queer narratives, affirming love, justice, and human worth. Future directions for

practice and research call for continued education and discussion of issues more in religious and

clinical settings. Through increasing compassion and adopting empirical approaches to practice,

all people who identify as gay, lesbian, and bisexual should be accepted in society as it aligns

with Christian values of love for everyone.

Sexual Orientation and Identity

Sexuality includes psychological, social, cultural and biological features and is

considered an essential part of individual and collective human experience. Human sexuality

refers to the various aspects of human sexual behavior, sexual orientation, identity, relationships,

physical and physiological aspects involved, and factors that influence these aspects in people.

This essentially involves understanding various aspects of sexual practices through borrowing

from medicine, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, and Gender studies, among others. This

topic focuses on how people accept or even appreciate sexual orientation and sexual identity,

starting with heterosexuality, homosexuality, and bisexuality and continuing with other forms.

Sexual orientation encompasses hormonal, genetic, cultural and environmental factors.

Collaboratively, these can determine the sex to which one is attracted to, and which one they
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identify with. Furthermore, this area encompasses prejudice and misconceptions that affect the

LGBTQ+ community, the role of laws and people's perceptions, and attempts to create an

inclusive environment for them. The subsequent sections of this paper will distinguish between

the formation of sexual orientation, the roles and meaning of sexual orientation in personal and

social construction, and the pursuit of equal rights for all sexual orientations.

Area of Interest

The selected area of focus for this paper is, therefore, the process of sexual orientation

and its relevance for individual and collective identity. Thus, this topic has been selected for

several vital reasons that reveal its importance and relevance within today's society. Firstly, one

can observe the increasing public acknowledgment of diverse sexual orientations and sexually

diverse people. Perception and treatment of gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, and other members of

the queer community have undergone drastic changes over the last few decades for the better in

many countries (Suen et al., 2020). Even so, the gay community continues to experience

significant hurdles and imbalances regarding sexual orientation. It is essential for learning about

the lives of marginalized queer populations and combating present-day oppression of diverse

sexual orientations and genders.

Secondly, sexual orientation is an area of research where biological, psychological, and

social aspects have many nuanced intersections. This is because it is an interdisciplinary course

of study that can be helpful in understanding human growth, identity, and groups. It is suggested

that understanding the processes of sexual orientation formation and its manifestations would

make it easier to appreciate the differences in people and the events that shape their lives.

Thirdly, this area is selected because modern society continues to embrace the rights of persons

belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, and discussions on these topics are still relevant.
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Although the matters of equality have improved in many aspects, the LGBTQ+ community

continues to face controversy and struggle for its rights. A study by Cerezo et al. (2020) shows

that some participants relied on their families to help pay for several of their moving costs to the

United States due to the danger of being discriminated against for being trans women in their

home countries. Considering these aspects of sexual orientation and identity can help to improve

these discussions and develop the policies needed for an equal and tolerant society. Lastly, there

is little knowledge and research data regarding sexual orientation in various cultures around the

world. Stigmas and prejudice continue to exist in society in the form of misconception,

stereotyping, and biased attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community. Thus, it is within this area

that this paper intends to support the general and integral awareness of sexual orientation so as to

encourage a less prejudiced society.

Notably, the writer selected this topic based on their own volition and interest. The

analysis of the concept of sexual orientation and identity is of academic interest to the writer,

who aims at social justice for minority groups. Thus, the primary purpose of engaging in this

topic is to provide input to the discussions regarding equality and to promote the efforts to foster

a tolerant society for homosexuals.

Description

The awareness and tolerance of people with different sexual orientations have been

widely developed over time. It is important to note that many ancient civilizations accepted, and

in some cases even encouraged, relationships between people of the same sex. For instance,

homosexual relationships in ancient Greece and Rome were part of the societal norms of the

time. However, with the introduction of the Abrahamic religions, especially Christianity and

Islam, the point of view toward non-heterosexual conduct drastically changed, and such
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behaviors were condemned and criminalized. Notably, a study by Meyer (2020) shows that

sexual minorities who reported having experienced SOCE (sexual orientation change efforts) had

nearly twice the odds of lifetime suicidal ideation, 75% higher odds of planning a suicide

attempt, and 88% higher odds of a suicide attempt with minor injury than sexual minorities

reporting that they had not undergone SOCE. This led to numerous years of targeting,

oppression, and ostracization of the LGBTQ+ community. There were significant changes in the

history of sexual orientation in general, especially in the Western world in the twentieth century.

Additionally, the social acceptance of homosexuality also got a boost in 1973 when the

American Psychiatric Association decided to remove homosexuality from its list of mental

disorders. Since then, there has been a relative appreciation of the rights of these individuals, for

instance, the legalization of same-sex marriage across many countries and regions, anti-

discrimination laws, and generally increased acceptance. Sexual minority individuals seek and

employ several resources that can be embedded within the individual as well as in an external

environment which may help to buffer the effects of minority stress on health. (Frost et al.,

2020). Hence, to appreciate the need to make sexual orientation a focal point, one has to decipher

the fact that there is minimal content that has been written on this subject. At the structural level,

it determines policies, laws, and even cultures within the society. The prejudice of sexual

orientation is evident in society, resulting in several discriminations experienced in employment,

health, and personal spheres for the members of the LGBTQ+ community. Spears (2021) posits

that they also have enduring effects on their families since acceptance or rejection by the family

is a backbone or a cause of the fight and impacts the health of the mind. “Social reality testing

only comes into play when we are less certain (e.g., in the realm of opinions and values) and

might therefore rely on others” (Spears, 2021). In the context of individuals or personal identity,
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sexual orientation is undoubtedly one of the crucial dimensions. It affects self-esteem,

interpersonal interactions, and psychological well-being too. LGBT people can have some

problems: it is difficult for them to disclose their sexual identity, to accept themselves, and to

perform in institutions that may be openly abusive of their existence.

Consequently, they are prone to developing different sicknesses, such as depressive

disorder, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, which is why such environments, as well as the

availability of comprehensive health care, should be encouraged. A participant in a study

conducted by Suen et al. (2020) said that “No one uses homosexual. And it has a very negative

connotation to us…Because we’re in a very religious, conservative area and it gets used to hurt

us all the time.” Therefore, sexual orientation is assessed based on such stigma as psychological

tests, self-identification, and distortion of sexual orientations consistently across generations. It is

not a pathology, it is not a perversion, or a paraphilia, but it is a different orientation on the

sexual continuum of the human being. These results mainly stem from stigmatization and

prejudice from the members of society, as well as non-acceptance, as compared with the

paradigm.

Societal and Cultural Impacts

Sexual orientation, how it is formed, and the roles that it plays within personal and social

identity have powerful psychological effects on more significant cultures, individuals, as well as

families. To understand these, one has to analyze the attitude of societies, cultural disparities, and

the repercussions that stem from the lack of appropriate acceptance and inclusion of individuals

belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.

Broader Community Impact

Sexual orientation defines relationships and interactions, laws, and legislative acts, as

well as public health strategies and practices. Better acceptance of different sexual orientations

can make society inclusive, and people of all complexions and orientations can be embraced

regardless of their sexual orientation. They can help to ensure prejudice and discrimination are

minimized, establishing social harmony and equality. On the other hand, if society has negative

attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community, it can lead to systemic exclusion and disadvantages

in employment, education, health services, and housing. Discrimination does not only affect the

victims but also fosters prejudice and antagonism against specific groups, which is catastrophic

to the fundamental human rights of equality for all.

Impact on Individuals and Families

In the case of personal perspectives, sexual orientation is regarded as one of the core

components of self-identity. Reception could be perceived to promote self-acceptance, healthy

attitudes, and health status among persons. Nonetheless, members of the LGBTQ+ community

have some distinct concerns, such as the coming out process, discrimination, and stigma. These

may culminate in increased cases of mental disorders like depression, anxiety, and suicidal

tendencies. Instead of putting all sexual minorities in equal danger of developing stress-sensitive

mental health issues, concealment might even be less stressful for some of the sexual minorities

or may even act as a shield against other forms of minority stress like homophobia (Pachankis et

al., 2020). Understanding and acceptance of one's family dramatically contributes to the overall

well-being of persons within the LBGTQ+ community. Thus, the family may serve as a

protective factor, reducing the impact of societal negativity on the individual's life and improving

their psychological well-being. On the other hand, same-sex rejection by family members
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amplifies feelings of loneliness and depression, resulting in greater emotional and psychological

damage.

Cultural Issues and Differences

Attitudes relating to sexual orientation differ from country to country in the world. Some

cultures embrace the LGBTQ+ and afford them recognition in society, offer them rights, and

support them legally. Hall et al. (2020) argue that the social identity formation of the LGBTQ+

can be described as complex and positive since it can enhance psychological wellbeing and

adaptive functioning. Most of the developed countries of the West have undergone tremendous

progress in terms of legal protection of the rights of the members of this community, including

marriage and anti-discrimination rights. While in other cultures, people may be embracing

different values and beliefs that deny non-heterosexual orientations as usual (Pachankis et al.,

2020). In some countries, being a homosexual is against the law, and any LGBTQ person is at

high risk of being put in jail or even killed. Therefore, cultural differences shape the treatment

and understanding of LGBTQ+ populations, which, in turn, determines their life quality and

legal status.

Christian Worldviews

Sexual orientation, or specifically homosexuality, remains a polemic and delicate subject

within the Christian framework, as numerous denominations and traditions offer their stance and

interpretation. In an effort to understand how this topic is perceived, it is necessary to consider

scriptural backing, Christian teachings, and views of Christian leaders and scholars.

Scriptural References and Teachings

The Bible does not appear to shy away from the topic of sexual conduct and does include

texts that would be pertinent in the broader debate on homosexuality. Key verses include

Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 in Leviticus, where homosexual acts are considered detestable under

the law of Moses. In the New Testament, many people consider Romans 26-27, 1 Corinthians

6:9-10, and 1 Timothy 1:10 as the scriptures that are against same-sex relations. LGBT people

are commonly seen as sinful in the sense they are violating moral principles concerning sex.

(Wilkins et al., 2022). They have been used in the past by proponents of the theory that

homosexual activity is inconsistent with Christianity. Nevertheless, there is an emerging trend of

theological exegetes who are interpreting these passages within their socio-historical matrix.

Critics have argued that these scriptures point to some behaviors, including idolatry and

exploitation of individuals and not committed same-sex relationships. This reexamination has

resulted in liberal interpretations within some denominations of Christianity.

Christian Leaders and Scholars

The position of Christian leaders and scholars on the issue of sexual orientation is highly

polarized. Currently, many evangelical, Catholic, and Orthodox Churches are traditionalists in

regard to marriage, believing that homosexual relations are sinful and that marriage should be

between a man and a woman, according to Wilkins et al. (2022). Well-known, influential leaders

such as Pope Francis have reaffirmed the position of the Catholic Church on this issue, at the

same time urging members of the Church to be kind and tolerant towards representatives of the

LGBTQ+ community. On the other hand, liberal Christian leaders and theologians call for the

acceptance of the practice of homosexuality and membership of queer people in the Church.

They have it that the Gospel is love, grace, and justice which should be given to anyone

regardless of status or sexual orientation. Some of the Christian denominations that have
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supported same-sex marriage and gay clergy are the United Church of Christ, the Episcopal

Church, and some branches of the Methodist Church. Prominent representatives of this branch of

thought, such as theologians Matthew Vines and James Brownson, focus on the re-interpretation

of the biblical texts so as to accept gay orientations and same-sex relationships.

God's View

To get closer to the essence of God's relationship with the question of homosexuality, one

has to leave the specific prohibitive verses in the Bible and focus on the basic principles of the

Word – love, justice, and mercy. Central to Christian belief is the idea that all people are created

in the image of God, and as such, they should be accorded dignity and respect (English Standard

Version Bible, 2001, Genesis 1:27). The essence of Jesus' ministry was unconditional love

without any discrimination for the outcasts in society. The Greatest Commandments are to love

God and love one's neighbor, as they stress love as the starting point of Christian morality

(English Standard Version Bible, 2001, Matthew 22:37-40). Regarding the attitude towards

LGBTQ+ people, many Christians are convinced that one must love their neighbor as

themselves, regardless of the person's orientation. This view calls on the Church to accept people

of LGBTQ+ orientation and to fight for justice, demanding equal treatment and respect for the

lives of the people in question.

Clinical and Spiritual Responses

Clinical Responses

Regarding sexual orientation, there is no clinical treatment that seeks to modify or

eliminate gay orientation, but rather affirmation, support, and counseling. Most mental health

associations, such as the APA, have rejected conversion therapy, which aims at altering a person's
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sexual orientation, because of its damaging consequences. The associated minority stress is

caused by the stigmatization, discrimination and other socio-cultural pressures that sexual

minority and gender expansive population undergo. (McKay & Watson, 2020). On the other

hand, clinical responses focus on affirmative therapy, which encourages clients, specifically the

LGBTQ+, to accept their sexual orientation.

Evaluations entail the process of ascertaining the experiences of the particular person,

emotions, and any discomfort observed. Interviews, self-report questionnaires, and discussions

about personal history, as evidenced by the case, help clinicians understand the individual's

sexual orientation and mental health status. According to Perrotta (2020), there are no great

differences in fluctuating asymmetry between homosexuals and heterosexuals and actually the

homosexual one is in fact not inferior to an optimal phenotypically sexual orientation. Thus, the

idea is to facilitate acceptance of such persons so that one does not have to suppress their identity

due to fear of being discriminated against. CBT was suggested for anxiety, depression, or

internalized stigma concerning the individuals' sexual orientation. Another critical area is

affirmative therapy, which focuses on the validation and affirmation of the clients' LGBTQ+

identities. Community support and participation in groups can act as a cushion and minimize

patients' sense of loneliness.

Spiritual Responses

An adequate spiritual response entails acknowledging the value and respect of the

LGBTQ+ population, offering support and acceptance, and developing diverse and welcoming

practices. Most liberal churches have embraced inclusion by accepting gay people into church

activities, ordaining them, and marrying them as other people do. Inclusive churches may center

their teachings on God's grace and forgiveness, welcoming everyone regardless of their
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orientation (Wilkins et al., 2022). They focus on pastoral care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans,

and questioning Christians, where counseling, support groups, and education are available to

ensure that the congregation becomes accepting of equal rights for these people.

However, it is essential to note that this posture has not been adopted in all the churches.

Some conservative denominations still consider homosexual behavior to be sinful, but they only

encourage celibacy for gay people. Such churches may provide support through pastoral care in

the form of counseling that encourages people to live as per the beliefs of their chosen religion

based on the Bible.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, Sexual orientation has been described here, how it emerges, how it affects

identity on individual and social levels, and the varying therapeutic and religious approaches. We

introduced the concept of sexual orientation, analyzed its historical and cultural background, and

focused on the concerns of the LGBTQ+ community and the need for inclusiveness. We also

looked at the ways that sexual orientation is measured and addressed in medical contexts,

including affirmative therapy and the exclusion of practices such as conversion therapy. Also, the

differences in how people of the Christian faith approached the issue from a traditional

perspective to a liberal one were analyzed. Loving the sinner, seeking justice for the

marginalized, and recognizing the inherent value of all human lives: the larger Church should

embrace equity and affirmation for the LGBTQ+ community. In this perspective, congregations

need to develop educational programs that will make individuals appreciate the topic of sexual

orientation and stop stigmatizing gay individuals. It is, therefore, advisable that counseling

communities uphold affirmative practices and support policies and practices that do not

discriminate. Also, there should be continued theological and scientific discourse and advocacy
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on the part of religion and health care. Therefore, by changing attitudes to CSD and adopting the

principles of compassionate communities and effective practices, we can build a society where

every person with CSD would feel wanted and supported. This approach does not go against the

principles of ethical treatment of patients with mental illnesses. It complies with the message of

love and acceptance of everyone, as stated in the Bible.

References

Book

English Standard Version Bible. (2001). ESV Online. https://esv.literalword.com/

Journals

Cerezo, A., Cummings, M., Holmes, M., & Williams, C. (2020). Identity as resistance: Identity

formation at the intersection of race, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Psychology

of Women Quarterly, 44(1), 67–83. https://doi.org/10.1177/0361684319875977

Frost, D. M., Hammack, P. L., Wilson, B. D., Russell, S. T., Lightfoot, M., & Meyer, I. H.

(2020). The qualitative interview in psychology and the study of social change: Sexual

identity development, minority stress, and health in the generations study. Qualitative

Psychology, 7(3), 245. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/qup0000148

Hall, W. J., Dawes, H. C., & Plocek, N. (2021). Sexual orientation identity development

milestones among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer people: A systematic review and

meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 753954.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.753954

McKay, T. R., & Watson, R. J. (2020). Gender expansive youth disclosure and mental health:

Clinical implications of gender identity disclosure. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and

Gender Diversity, 7(1), 66. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/sgd0000354

Meyer, I. H. (2020). Sexual Orientation Change Efforts, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and

Suicide Ideation and Attempt Among Sexual Minority Adults, United States, 2016–2018.
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Health, 110, 1024-1030.

https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/ref/10.2105/AJPH.2020.305637?role=tab

Pachankis, J. E., Mahon, C. P., Jackson, S. D., Fetzner, B. K., & Bränström, R. (2020). Sexual

orientation concealment and mental health: A conceptual and meta-analytic review.

Psychological bulletin, 146(10), 831. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/bul0000271

Perrotta, G. (2020). Sexual orientations: a critical review of psychological, clinical and

neurobiological profiles. Clinical hypothesis of homosexual and bisexual positions.

International Journal of Sexual and Reproductive Health Care, 3(1), 027-041.

https://www.reprodgroup.us/articles/IJSRHC-3-112.php

Spears, R. (2021). Social influence and group identity. Annual review of psychology, 72, 367-

390. https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-psych-070620-

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Suen, L. W., Lunn, M. R., Katuzny, K., Finn, S., Duncan, L., Sevelius, J., ... & Obedin-Maliver,

J. (2020). What sexual and gender minority people want researchers to know about sexual

orientation and gender identity questions: A qualitative study. Archives of sexual

behavior, 49, 2301-2318. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-020-01810-y

Wilkins, C. L., Wellman, J. D., Toosi, N. R., Miller, C. A., Lisnek, J. A., & Martin, L. A. (2022).

Is LGBT progress seen as an attack on Christians?: Examining Christian/sexual

orientation zero-sum beliefs. Journal of personality and social psychology, 122(1), 73.

https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/pspi0000363
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Appendix

Sex and Gender

Figure 1 https://orwh.od.nih.gov/about/director/messages/gender-as-social-and-cultural-variable-

and-health
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