Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2025

Assessment of Sexual Behavior of Male Mice
Published on: March 5, 2020
Emerging insights into the genetics and evolution of human same-sex sexual behavior
Thomas Felesina1, Brendan P Zietsch1
1Centre for Psychology and Evolution, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia.
Abstract:
Thanks to twin studies, it has been known for decades that human same-sex sexual behavior (SSB) has a substantial heritable component. However, only recently have large genome-wide association studies (GWAS) begun to illuminate the complex genetics involved. These studies have established that SSB is influenced by many common genetic variants, each with tiny but cumulative effects. The evolutionary explanation for the persistence of genetic variants associated with SSB, despite their apparent fitness costs, remains uncertain. In this review, we synthesize advances in understanding the genetic and evolutionary bases of SSB, while identifying the many areas in which we still have much to learn.
Related Concept Videos
Criticisms of the Evolutionary Perspective
Evolutionary psychology provides one explanation for these findings, suggesting...
Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
Natural Selection and Mating Preferences
Females, due to their biological roles in conception, pregnancy, and nursing,...
Evolutionary Psychology
Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance
Formation of Species

