Homosexuality

A primary erotic attraction to others of the same sex. Overt homosexual behavior may be inhibited, delayed, or otherwise modified because of family or peer pressure, social bias, or intrapsychic conflict caused by the internalization of social prejudice.

A preferential erotic attraction for members of the same sex.

Sexual attraction to people of the same sex or sexual relations with people of the same sex.

Sexual attraction to people of the same sex, a pattern of sexual preference that exists in substantial segments of the population. Though reliable and current data is lacking, perhaps 5 percent of the population is estimated to be fully homosexual by preference (women homosexuals often being called lesbians), while another 15 to 35 percent may be bisexual, having both homosexual and heterosexual relationships at various points during their lives.

Enduring erotic, emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to members of the same sex. Homosexual men are commonly called gay and homosexual women, either gay or lesbian. Homosexuality appears in all cultures and societies, socioeconomic and educational levels, and religious and ethnic groups. It is generally thought that about one of every ten persons is homosexual.

The condition of being sexually attracted, covertly or overtly, by members of one’s own sex: it can affect either sex. The cause of homosexuality remains unclear, although explanations in terms of either a deviant family structure or an environment with limited opportunities for heterosexual contacts are increasingly accepted. Homosexuality is no longer generally regarded as a psychological disorder but therapy may be offered to individuals wishing to change their sexual orientation. There are no drugs available for changing sexual orientation, although it is possible to depress the sexual drive. Treatment consists of psychotherapy or specific behavior therapy designed to eliminate homosexual behavior and fantasy and to increase heterosexual behavior. Persons seeking help for their homosexuality may benefit from counseling to reduce their anxiety and guilt, rather than trying to change their sexual behavior.

Sexual activity with a member of the same sex. The number of homosexual men and women in the UK is unknown. Re-analysis of the 1950s Kinsey report suggests that only 3 per cent of adult men have exclusively homosexual leanings, while a further 3 per cent have extensive homosexual and heterosexual experience. Homosexuality among women (lesbianism) seems to be less common. Some homosexual men have high rates of sexual activity and multiple partners and, as with heterosexual men and women, this increases the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases, unless appropriate precautionary measures are taken for example, the use of condoms for penetrative sex, whether vaginal or anal. It was in homosexual males that the virus responsible for AIDS was first identified, but the infection now occurs in both sexes.