¶ … Homosexuality Biologically Based?
NATURE OR NURTURE
Is Homosexuality Biologically-Based?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 50,000
new HIV infections occur in the United States every year (Yin, 2013). This number is in addition to an estimated 1.2 million already infection, 1 out of 5 of whom is unaware of his or her condition and, thus, cannot be treated. Gay and bisexual men account for a large share of the infected population. The lack of access to adequate healthcare by this population may be explained by the stigma of homosexuality, in addition to the illness, as among the structural factors (Yin). This brings to focus the chronic and much-debated issue on homosexuality and its basis: whether it is genetic or environmental and thus, a matter of choice.
Summary of Positions
Certain studies conducted have suggested that homosexuality is genetic. One is the LeVay Study, conducted by Simon LeVay in 1991, which used 41 homosexual subjects, almost all of whom had died of HIV complications (Bailey, 1993). The size of the deceased subjects' INAH3 nucleus of the hypothalamus was the focus of the study. Any difference in the nucleus size results from causes that are present during early childhood development. These causes are believed to result from genetic factors, other than environmental, behavioral or functional. A change in the size of the INAH3 points to genes as the determinants of sexual orientation or homosexuality. The second is the Bailey and Pillard Study (Bailey & Pillard, 1991) of identical and non-identical twins of gay men as well as adoptive brothers of gay men. Findings showed that half of them were homosexual, suggesting that homosexuality is biological and that biology itself influences or conduces to the development of homosexuality (Bailey, Bailey & Pillard).
Supporters of homosexuality argue that it is genetic or biologically-based and a destiny, which cannot be controlled (APA, 2013). Acceptance of this argument will allow laws to regulate same-sex marriages and stop penalties and prejudices for homosexual behaviors. Some sectors believe that religion helps shape attitudes about homosexuality and religious beliefs assert a stronger influence on homosexuality (Adamcyzk & Pitt, 2009) than other assumed factors or causes. Many studies have been conducted to examine genetic, hormonal, developmental,...
They should not just give them toys, they should also play with them. There are age-appropriate toys available in the market. For instance, Lego is an excellent toy for developing attention and concentration. However, if you leave a child alone with a Lego set, he will probably just throw the pieces around, as he will not understand what he is supposed to do with them. Parents should demonstrate how
Another psychological approach studied the physical basis for emotion. LeDoux (1995, p. 209+) noted, "Scientists concerned with human nature have not been able to reach a consensus about what emotion is and what place emotion should have in a theory of mind and behavior." He proposed, however, that "findings about the neural basis of emotion might also suggest new insights into the functional organization of emotion that were not apparent
Fortunately, the school authorities also schedule dormant periods, called classes, during which students can rest their minds and take a break. . .[They] correctly understand . . . that socialization is the most. . .morally important thing they will do in high school" (Brooks 2001:74-75, cited in lecture notes). Socialization requires adaptability and flexibility, which temperamentally-sensitive individuals lack and can make them more vulnerable to the stressors that all
He also discusses certain terms, these being epithymia, pathos, and orexis, terms that denote "the inclination of the will that leads to same-sex acts." Paul uses the terms in different passages, showing negative connotations. Other words are also examined for what they say about Paul's meaning and the view he takes toward homosexuality. The passage is thoroughly explored in this chapter, leaving the reader with some question as to
In addition, the researcher note that the relatively small sample size in their study did not allow separate genetic analyses for males and females (Coolidge et al.). Environmentalism (social influence). A recent study by Wallien and Cohen-Kettenis (2008) analyzed psychosexual outcomes of gender-dysphoric children at 16 years and older to determine childhood characteristics related to psychosexual outcomes based on various social influences that may be experienced during the timeframes studied.
Gender Identity What is gender? Is it a biological condition or a social construction? In today's modern world, it appears that it can be one or the other or even a mixture of both. Transgender people like Caitlyn Jenner (formerly Bruce Jenner, an Olympian) have raised awareness about the issue of gender, and so have others, like the Wachowski siblings, famous Hollywood directors, who have brought attention to the issue
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