Homosexuality
Homosexuality is a sexual preference wherein a person feels sexually attracted to another person of
the same sex. It is not a abnormal sexual activities nor is it a disease.
Heterosexuals are attracted to members of the opposite sex, a minority is attracted to members of the same sex and are called homosexuals.
For homosexual women the word 'Lesbian' is used while homosexual men are usually called gay. Homosexuals experience similar feelings of love, attraction and romance like heterosexual individuals, the difference is that the feelings are felt towards a person having same gender.
The exact nature of the development of sexual orientation and preferences is still not known. It is not clear whether sexual preferences result from genetic causes or are moulded by the environment in which a child grows up. Though some research studies have suggested that
homosexuality is genetic and is present at birth, there is no conclusive evidence to prove it. Some studies have also suggested that there is a difference between the brains of homosexuals and heterosexuals.
There have been other studies to prove that homosexuality is the result of complex interactions between a child's social, psychological and physiological environment. The realisation whether an individual is homosexual or not, usually dawns after puberty. Just like heterosexuality, homosexuality is also an alternative way of life.
Till the 1970's it was said to be a mental aberration and homosexuals were shunned in public life. Thus most homosexuals were afraid to reveal their sexual preference and were called 'closet homosexuals'. In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from the list of mental disorders.
Homosexuals are not having different feelings. Most homosexuals in India have still not been able to come out in the open with their sexuality because of the fear of societal censure. When in a relationship, homosexuals are known to experience the same feelings as heterosexuals.
What are some of the myths surrounding homosexuality?
Homosexuality is not a deviation but alternate sexual life.
Most homosexuals dress, walk, talk and live like regular people. Any masculinity or feminity are individual personality traits and have nothing to do with one's sexual preference.
It is said that homosexuals are artists but there is no scientific proof that homosexuals are more artistic than others.
However, once they realize their sexual orientation, homosexuals are faithful and monogamous with their partners, like heterosexuals.
According to the Indian Penal Code, homosexuality is "against the order of nature" and is thus a crime. Under section 377 of the IPC, homosexuality can be a punishable offence with an imprisonment for life. Alternatively, the offender can be imprisoned for ten years with imposition of a fine. However, the act of unnatural intercourse has to be proven to make a case. Penetration of a man by a man is termed unnatural by the Indian law.