Sexual Identity & Expression
Sexual identity and expression are integral parts of who we are. They influence relationships, self-esteem, mental health, and social dynamics. Despite growing acceptance worldwide, misinformation and stigma persist, underscoring the need for clarity and education.
Sexual identity includes how individuals understand and label their sexual orientation, while sexual expression encompasses how they choose to act, present, and share intimacy. A 2024 study in The Lancet Global Health revealed that inclusive attitudes toward sexual diversity correlate strongly with improved mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ populations.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is sexual identity the same as sexual orientation?
Not exactly. Sexual orientation refers to patterns of attraction, while sexual identity is how someone labels and understands themselves in relation to those attractions.
Can sexual identity change over time?
Yes. For some, sexual identity remains stable; for others, it evolves as they grow and explore their feelings and relationships.
What does “coming out” mean?
Coming out is the process of acknowledging one’s sexual identity to oneself and others. It’s deeply personal and may happen gradually or not at all, depending on individual comfort and safety.
Is being LGBTQ+ a mental health disorder?
No. Major mental health associations worldwide, including the American Psychological Association, affirm that diverse sexual orientations are normal variations of human sexuality. Distress comes from societal stigma, not the identities themselves.
KEY TERMS
Heterosexual
Attraction to a gender different from one’s own.
Gay/Lesbian
Attraction to individuals of the same gender.
Bisexual
Attraction to more than one gender.
Pansexual
Attraction regardless of gender.