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Sexual orientation and sexual behavior
 The
following key terms relating to sexual attraction and expression are also
critical to further discussion on these topics:
Sexual orientation
is the erotic or romantic attraction (or “preference”)
for sharing sexual expression with members of the opposite sex (heterosexuality),
one’s own sex (homosexuality), or both sexes (bisexuality).
Sexual behaviors
are actions (touching, kissing, and other stimulation of the body) related
to the expression of one’s sexuality. Activities related to sexual
expression that are performed habitually or repeatedly can be referred
to as sexual practices (although some use the terms “sexual
behaviors” and “sexual practices” interchangeably). Sexual
behaviors and practices are what people “do” sexually with
others or with themselves.
Many people believe (and there
is some scientific evidence to support the idea) that sexual orientation
may be determined before birth, though orientation may also be influenced
by social factors. It should be noted that a person’s sexual practices
do not necessarily indicate sexual orientation or sexual identity. For
example, one person may practice sexual behaviors with another person for
reasons other than sexual orientation (for example, for survival, money,
or power over another individual), or a person may practice sexual behaviors
that conform to societal norms, even if the practice is not consistent
with that person’s sexual orientation.
© 2007 EngenderHealth
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