Paradise Under Your Feet — Page 186
186 in development may be exacerbated by certain temperaments and personality types such as being very sensitive, or artistic and introspective. For females with same-sex attractions, it is postulated the environment exerts far more influence in its formation as compared to males. Perhaps for this reason two things are noted: first, female homosexual attractions are less prevalent than male homosexuality, and secondly, female sexuality is much more malleable than male sexuality. Some observations suggest sexually abused children may start displaying same-sex attractions later in life. It is a pathway that may be more important in the development of female homosexuality as compared to males. Female homosexuality may also arise in women suffering abuse from men in their previous relationships, undergoing extremely emotional and bitter experiences and finding safety and emotional comfort with women, sometimes leading to sexual experiences. Of course, there are cultural factors as well and the circumstances can be different in other parts of the world. For example, in parts of the Middle East and South Asia, where gender segregation is extreme, homosexuality can be an outlet for experimentation and many may take on that identity. There is however one very important over-arching factor that cannot be emphasized enough. Any society that is ‘ over-sexualized ’ in the public domain (either heterosexual or homosexual) may have a huge impact on children and development of sexual attractions. This could be through popular media, behavior of people around them, exposure to pornography at young ages, etc. , leading to an atmosphere of sexual anarchy. A very important element comes thus into play: a society with a very vocal and public “ gay ” subculture may confuse