Sexual Identity

Sexual identity has a least two meanings in the social sciences, both relating to inner convictions or claims about who and what we are. The first meaning refers to the various ways we see ourselves as male or female, and the second defines our sexuality or the kinds of erotic partners we prefer. These inner convictions usually begin with medical designations made about biological sex at birth, based on the appearance of genitalia and presence of certain chromosomes. Children are then raised as girls or boys, and encouraged to accept gender roles or certain mannerisms and behaviors considered appropriate to their biological sex. However, sexual identity is not always consistent with medical designations, physical anatomy, or gender roles.

Sexual identity is difficult to define and measure because it is an inner conviction that could be inconsistent with appearance or overt behavior, because it can change throughout life, and because it does not always reflect the perceptions of others. A man may be comfortable with his male body, act in a socially appropriate way for his culture, have occasional sex with men, but be married and see himself as a heterosexual. A woman could grow up a tomboy, dress and behave in “masculine” ways, and work in a male-dominated job but know she is a heterosexual woman. A “lipstick” lesbian could wear ultra-feminine clothing and accessories but live with a female partner. Outward expressions of sexual identity can also be altered to suit different social circumstances, or can be radically transformed through sex reassignment procedures.

Most people subconsciously accept social and cultural expectations about sexual or gender-related behavior. Although they may question their degree of masculinity or femininity, they may seldom or never question whether they are male or female. Those who are confused about their sexual identity may disguise these feelings to fit in with social conventions, or become celibate. Alternatively, they may attempt to change societal attitudes, their own external appearance, or their anatomy. Nevertheless, social scientists now argue that individuals can have multiple sexual identities, which may be inconsistent, contradictory, and transitional.