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Sexual Orientation: Categories or Continuum? Commentary on Bailey et al. (2016)
1Department of Human Development, Cornell University Savin-Williams@cornell.edu.
Summary
This study challenges categorical views of sexual orientation, proposing a continuum model supported by research on diverse sexualities. This perspective impacts understanding nonheterosexual prevalence and gender nonconformity.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Human Sexuality
- Social Science
Background:
- Existing research, like Bailey et al. (2016), often categorizes sexual orientation.
- This categorical approach has limitations and methodological shortcomings.
- An alternative perspective is needed to fully understand sexual orientation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critique the categorical model of sexual orientation.
- To propose and support a continuum-based perspective on sexual orientation.
- To explore the implications of a continuum model for future research and understanding.
Main Methods:
- Review and critique of existing sexual orientation research, including Bailey et al. (2016).
- Presentation of evidence from studies on "in-between" sexualities.
- Theoretical argumentation for a continuum model.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports viewing sexual orientation as a continuum rather than distinct categories.
- This continuum perspective applies to both women and men.
- The proposed model addresses limitations of previous research.
Conclusions:
- A continuum model offers a more nuanced understanding of sexual orientation.
- This perspective has significant implications for research on nonheterosexuality, gender nonconformity, and the causes of sexual orientation.
- The continuum model may also inform political and social discussions surrounding sexual orientation.