On what sexual diversity is not and its relationship with psychology
In general terms, psychology is responsible for the study of human behavior for its understanding and prediction. This can pigeonhole it into conditioning processes and a premise that is fine to be supported by scientific evidence, but without reaching the point. reductionism which in any of its areas is not very appropriate.
The concept of gay psychology
Psychology is as broad as the complexity of the human being, not to mention sexuality. Here we find sexual diversity, framed in a very varied range full of nuances. Therefore, beyond impositions, whether due to culture, society and religion especially. Possibly when we hear about sexual diversity let us think vaguely or exclusively about homosexuality, but there are many other aspects involved. When it comes to homosexuality, a lot is said about what we think we know what it is, but very little is said about what it is not.
So, what exactly are we referring to: gay psychology or the psychology related to sexual diversity? Sexual diversity, therefore, contemplates emotional and sexual orientation beyond heterosexuality, which is given to us by the parameters constructed by our society according to gender and its direct correspondence. All this, as if it were a dogma, without taking into account its possible variants. Denying any option that opposes heteronormativity.
We find a lack of flexibility which does not take into account components such as the biological, which becomes feasible together with the environment in the person, but rather those imposed by man in his opinion. Another point to take into account is affectivity, since we all feel the need to love and be loved, this as far as a relationship is concerned. Then the inclination becomes known as the emotional-sexual orientation, they can go together or separately, which is expressed with attraction.
Homosexuality, therefore, will be the emotional and/or sexual inclination for people of the same sex, regardless of gender, identity, role and its corresponding expression. We can often come across the acronym LGBTI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual and Intersexual). These initials encompass sexual diversity or the so-called sexual minority, which is why it is given a connotation of stigma, but it does not always have to be that way. Curiously, many accuse the people who identify themselves as such of being responsible for the rejection that is evident in discrimination, but it occurs due to the misconception of the environment
Labels give a name and classify, although they do not define the person in their entirety, instead they make them visible. Being the testimony, the labels, that we are different but with equal rights. There are many aspects to be discussed in this broad topic and its direct relationship with psychology lies in understanding the person in their individuality. Realize how he builds, develops and becomes aware of who he is. Offering support and help. Because we all have the full right to be how we feel, even if what has been imposed on us by different conventions contradicts it.
Psychology, then, opens a field of possibilities available to everyone to understand and understand ourselves, this improves the quality of life and well-being. At some point we can act, think, feel and speak in a way that expresses homophobia or rejection of different “options” or variants of sexuality that are not, precisely, heterosexual, since we have grown up in environments where it is somehow implicitly encouraged. , but it is up to each individual to be aware of whether or not it is correct. Above all, we are people worthy of respect, whatever we are or how we define ourselves. It’s okay that we can’t demand that everyone “understands”, but more than tolerance we should offer respect for the different ways of being and feeling regarding sexuality and affectivity.
