Scientists do not know the exact cause of sexual orientation, but they theorize that it is caused by a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences, and do not view it as a choice. Across cultures, most people are heterosexual, and heterosexual activity is by far the most common type of sexual activity. As a sexual orientation, heterosexuality is 'an enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions' to people of the opposite sex it 'also refers to a person's sense of identity based on those attractions, related behaviors, and membership in a community of others who share those attractions.' Someone who is heterosexual is commonly referred to as straight.Īlong with bisexuality and homosexuality, heterosexuality is one of the three main categories of sexual orientation within the heterosexual–homosexual continuum. Heterosexuality is romantic attraction, sexual attraction or sexual behavior between people of the opposite sex or gender.
