Everyone's sexuality is different. Sexuality is made up of lots of different components, including our self image, social relationships, sensuality, emotions, spirituality, political identity and our sexual practices.*
Sexual orientation relates to who people find attractive. Some people from an early age are very sure of their sexual orientation, but it’s not unusual for someone to be less sure, or feel that their sexual orientation changes over time. These are the words that are used to describe sexual orientation:
Straight: is used to describe people who are attracted to people of the opposite sex.
Gay: is used to describe people who are attracted to people of the same sex (some people use the word ‘gay’ to only describe guys who are attracted to other guys).
Lesbian: is used to describe girls who are attracted to other girls.
Bisexual: is used to describe people who are attracted to both guys and girls.
Lots of people are sure about who they fancy, and are very happy with their sexuality, other people may not be sure, and may find it difficult. Some people may be worried about how others will react to their sexuality.
There are lots of organisations that offer advice and support around sexual orientation
There are lots of organisations that offer advice and support around sexual orientation
There are lots of organisations that offer advice and support around sexual orientation, including support for families who have a lesbian, gay or bisexual family member.
Parent's Enquiry Scotland offers support to parents of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender children across Scotland through a network of confidential Helplines. For further information, call their helpline on 0131 556 6047, or visit their website at http://www.parentsenquiryscotland.org/
LGBT Youth Scotland offers advice, support and youth groups for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender young people. For more information, visit their website on http://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/
Lothian Gay and Lesbian Switchboard offer advice and support to all on issues around sexuality. Their main Helpline telephone number is 0131 556 4049, and is open every night of the week from 7.30pm until 10.00pm.
*Source: Painter & Adams (2005) Making hard things easier. Sheffield Centre for HIV and Sexual Health.
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