Many scientific studies have been conducted trying to find the root cause or source of homosexuality. After years of researching different biological as well as environmental factors, most scientists agree at this point that the cause(s) of homosexuality are incredibly complex and cannot be singled out as either strictly biological or environmental.
Dr. Julie Harren-Hamilton, President of the National Association and Research for Homosexuality (NARTH), says homosexuality is “certainly not a choice, but nor is it a biological reality. The research, more and more, reveals that people are not simply born gay. Yet, at the same time, we don’t choose our attractions” (Julie Harren-Hamilton, interviewed by Doug Fabrizio, “Debating the Causes of Homosexuality,” RadioWest, KUER, June 4, 2009). When asked if traumatic experiences or abuse could be factors, Harren-Hamilton responded, “Yes. . . . But there are a number of things that can contribute such as relationships with parents, relationships with peers, traumatic experiences; experiences that are unique to that person. Those things can contribute. Sometimes it is a combination of several factors, combined with temperament.”
The biological aspect has been proven to not be genetic. However, there can be several predispositions which, combined with certain life experiences, could cause an individual to have homosexual tendencies. There have been many studies done to find a so-called “gay gene,” but these studies have shown rather conclusively that there is no such thing. There is no biological way to tell a homosexual apart from a heterosexual. At this point, it seems the only biological contribution to homosexuality is certain predispositions, which, combined with certain environmental factors, can lead to a homosexual orientation.
Many people think that sexual abuse at a young age can be a trigger for an individual to become homosexual later in life, particularly in adolescence. While studies show that this has been a factor for many homosexuals, it is neither true that anyone who experiences sexual abuse as a child will become homosexual later in life, nor that all homosexuals were at one point sexually abused. The bottom line seems to be that the factors which influence an individual to be homosexual are very complex and are unique to each individual. It is generally accepted among scientists and psychologists, however, that homosexual tendencies and attractions are not a conscious choice made by an individual; in fact, individuals often resist these feelings.
NARTH is an organization which believes that change is possible for homosexual individuals who are unhappy with their sexual orientation. Harren-Hamilton stresses that change should never be forced on individuals, but that if patients want to change, that there is both help available and evidence to suggest that change is possible. The extent to which sexual orientation is changeable is another area which seems unclear at this time. Certainly not everyone’s feelings are the same. Thus, it could be much easier for one person to work on changing his or her sexual orientation than for another. There has been some success in this area, but certainly not a 100% success rate.
At this point in time, science has proven that the causes for homosexuality are complex and root from both biological and environmental factors. Those who experience homosexual tendencies have not made a conscious decision to feel that way and often try to overcome these feelings. In a society which is becoming polarized over the issue of homosexuality, it is important for both sides of the debate to realize that the causes of homosexuality are complex. Those who have homosexual tendencies should not be blamed for this condition and should be loved and accepted for who they are. While many people oppose homosexuality on religious or moral grounds, just because a person is homosexual does not mean he or she is a bad person, nor that the individual has willing chosen to feel that way. The best thing one can do, even if opposed to the lifestyle, is to offer support and friendship.
