Symbiosexuality: When You Are Attracted To A Partner
Across the broad spectrum of human sexuality, new ways of understanding and experiencing attraction and love are constantly emerging. One of these fascinating and unknown orientations is symbiosexuality, a term that describes the attraction experienced towards couples or groups of people who already have an existing bond. This form of attraction offers a unique perspective on how we perceive and value interpersonal connections.
Let’s see in depth what it is symbiosexuality unraveling its main and distinctive characteristics and examining the way it manifests itself in real life. We will address the factors that influence its development, the challenges faced by those who experience it, and the opportunities it presents to enrich our understanding of love, emotional bonding, and human relationships in general.
By delving into this topic, we will not only expand our knowledge about sexual diversity, but we will also reflect on the complexity and beauty of human connections in all their shapes, colors and styles.
Symbiosexuality is a fascinating yet unknown phenomenon on the spectrum of human sexuality that has recently gained attention in the field of psychology and gender and human relations studies. This term describes the specific attraction developed towards two or more people who already have a pre-existing relationship or bond between them.
Unlike other sexual orientations focused on individual characteristics, symbiosexuality focuses on the dynamics and connection between people. Symbiosexuals do not experience attraction towards a person, but towards the relationship itself and the energy that emanates from it. It is important to distinguish symbiosexuality from polyamory or the practice of swinging. These involve active participation in multiple relationships or exchange of partners, while symbiosexuality is the specific attraction to already established partners, without necessarily getting involved in them.
Symbiosexuality can manifest itself in different ways. Some symbiosexual people may be attracted to established romantic partners, while others may experience attraction to close friendships or even family relationships where a romantic bond does not exist. The crucial thing is to understand that attraction is based on the bond between individuals, rather than on individual characteristics of each person.
This phenomenon invites us to reconsider how we understand attraction and desire, underscoring the importance of interpersonal connections in the human sexual and romantic experience. Symbiosexuality reminds us of the diversity and complexity that can exist in emotional experiences, challenging the conventional categories of sexual orientation and interpersonal attraction.
Characteristics of symbiosexuality
Symbiosexuality presents a diversity of distinctive characteristics that significantly differentiate it from other sexual orientations and forms of attraction. Understanding these traits and behavioral and attractiveness differences is essential to understand the complexity of this experience.
1. Relational dynamics
First, symbiosexual attraction focuses on the relational dynamics of the partner who is the object of attraction. Symbiosexual individuals are attracted to this energy and connection that unites them, rather than their individual attributes or characteristics. This attraction can manifest itself towards romantic partners, but not exclusively, since it can also include friendships and other significant relationships.
2. Shared intimacy
Another key characteristic of symbiosexuality is the bilateral appreciation of shared intimacy. Symbiosexuals often find the complicity, trust, and shared history that can be seen in established relationships attractive. This attraction can be both emotional and sexual, although it does not necessarily imply the desire for active and direct participation in the relationship.
3. Greater sensitivity
Symbiosexuality is also characterized by a greater sensitivity towards interpersonal and relational interactions. Symbiosexual individuals are often keen observers of the dynamics in other people’s relationships, picking up on the subtleties of nonverbal communication and chemistry between people that others might miss.
4. Flexibility
Flexibility is another notable characteristic of symbiosexuality. Symbiosexual attraction can vary in intensity and form depending on the nature of the relationship observed. Some people may be more attracted to passionate romantic relationships, while others may appreciate deep, long-lasting friendships more.
5. Relational diversity
Finally, symbiosexuality manifests itself in relationships in various ways. Some symbiosexual individuals may seek to be part of other relationships in a way closer to polyamory, in which they can experience the dynamics that they find attractive. Others may prefer, on the other hand, to keep their attraction at platonic levels, emotionally nourishing themselves by observing and appreciating the relationships around them.
Symbiosexuality, like other sexual orientations or interpersonal attractions, can be understood as the result of a complex interaction between various factors. Although specific research focused on that orientation is still limited, we can identify several elements that likely play an important role in its development and expression.
1. Biological aspects
While no specific genetic markers for symbiosexuality have been identified, there may be neurobiological predispositions that influence how we perceive and respond to interpersonal dynamics. Some individuals may have a greater innate sensitivity to social interactions and emotional connections between others, which could contribute to the development of symbiosexual attraction.
2. Psychological factors
The psychology behind each person also plays a crucial role in the development and establishment of symbiosexuality. Early attachment experiences and family relationships can influence how a person perceives and values ​​interpersonal connections. Those who have grown up in environments where strong, healthy relationships are prioritized may develop a special appreciation for these types of bonds. Besides, Personality traits such as high empathy and keen social intuition may predispose some individuals toward symbiosexual attraction.
3. Sociocultural influences
The sociocultural context in which a person develops can have a significant impact on the expression of symbiosexuality. In societies where close relationships and interdependence are highly valued, symbiosexuality may be more recognized and accepted. On the other hand, in cultures that emphasize individualism or have strict norms about romantic relationships, symbiosexual individuals may face challenges understanding and expressing their orientation.
Challenges and opportunities
Symbiosexuality, like any new development for society and the quality of interpersonal ties, presents a series of unique challenges and opportunities that shape the experience of those who live it. Understanding these aspects is essential to navigating healthy and satisfying relationships.
1. Social understanding
The lack of general knowledge about a sexual orientation as unknown as symbiosexuality can lead to misunderstandings and difficulties in explaining this orientation to others and understanding this type of relationship while avoiding prejudices and stigmas. Therefore, It is crucial to educate and raise awareness about diversity in sexual orientation, contributing to greater acceptance and understanding in general society.
Establishing and maintaining relationships based on symbiosexuality can be complex, since it is a type of attraction that does not fit traditional relational models and we have not been educated to understand, at first glance, this way of relating sexually and emotionally. Therefore, it can be a good opportunity to explore creative and unconventional ways of relating that can be equally satisfying.
3. Communication
Given what we have been discussing about the lack of knowledge and access to information about symbiosexuality, explaining and negotiating the feelings that may arise in these types of interactions with potential or existing partners can be difficult. To remedy this, it is important to develop good communication skills and encourage greater emotional openness on both sides of the relationship.
4. Emotions and ethics
It can be a challenge to manage possible feelings of guilt or ethical conflict when feeling attracted to two people with an existing bond, and you can put yourself in a bad ethical place. To combat this stigma, it is important to cultivate your self-awareness and reflect on diversity in interpersonal relationships. and the validity of your actions as long as they are respectful, consensual and communicated.
5. Jealousy and security
In relation to the previous point, such a disruptive relationship model can generate insecurities or jealousy to a greater extent due to the nature of this attraction itself. Thus, fostering greater trust, based on open communication and respect, improves these types of problems and cultivates mutual understanding.
Conclusions
Symbiosexuality is a sexual orientation that challenges conventional notions of attraction, focusing on the connection between people who already have an existing bond. Although it presents challenges such as social misunderstanding and relational complexity, it also offers opportunities for emotional growth and communication. By understanding and accepting symbiosexuality, we can enrich our relationships and foster a more inclusive and diverse environment in the human experience of love, attraction, and interpersonal relationships and bonding.
