Sexual preference is an individual's choice about who they are attracted to sexually. It can be based on physical characteristics like height, weight, hair color, race, age, body type, or personality traits like confidence, intelligence, humor, kindness, ambition, compassion, etc. Sexual attraction is not under conscious control and varies from one person to another. Gender identity refers to how someone sees themselves regardless of their biological sex assigned at birth. Transgender individuals identify with a gender different from their birth sex. Cisgender people identify with their assigned birth sex. Some preferences are common but others are uncommon or non-standard.
Transgender females may prefer cisgender males because they view them as more feminine while cisgender males may prefer nonbinary individuals for their unique qualities. Intersectionality involves exploring complex interconnections between identities like sex and sexuality. This article will explore the intersection between sexual preference and gender identity/expression to help you understand it better.
Gender expression refers to the way an individual presents themselves outwardly in terms of clothing, hairstyle, makeup, mannerisms, etc. Someone might identify as female but dress masculinely because that is what feels most comfortable to them. The same applies to those who do not conform to stereotypical male or female presentations. Asexual individuals have no or low sexual desire towards anyone despite their gender identity/expression. They might choose partners based on other criteria like emotional intimacy, companionship, shared interests, support, stability, etc. Pansexuals are attracted to all genders including transgender and nonbinary individuals. Polyamorous individuals date multiple partners simultaneously without exclusivity. Monogamous individuals restrict dating only to one partner. Kinky individuals enjoy alternative sexual practices like BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, masochism). Monosexuals are attracted only to one gender, usually their own. Romantic individuals prioritize emotion over physical attraction. Platonic friends can share a platonic relationship with someone regardless of their gender identity/expression.
Intersectionality allows people to view gender/sexuality from various perspectives. It promotes self-awareness by recognizing how different aspects impact each other.
A cisgender woman may prefer a transgender man for his unique traits while a transgender woman might be more interested in someone who identifies as agender since they have similar struggles. Sexual preference intersects with gender identity/expression differently among people. Someone's desires may change due to past experiences, current circumstances, future expectations, cultural norms, societal pressures, parental influence, peer pressure, religious beliefs, media messages, personal values, etc. Intersections also differ between straight, gay, bisexual, asexual, pansexual, monogamous, polyamorous, kinky, monosexual, and romantic individuals. Understanding these connections helps us appreciate diversity and respect everyone equally despite their choices or inclinations.
How do sexual preferences intersect with gender identity or expression?
Sexual preference refers to an individual's physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction towards other people based on their gender identity. It can be expressed as heterosexual (attraction to the opposite sex), homosexual (attraction to the same sex), bisexual (attraction to both sexes), or asexual (lack of sexual attraction).