Symbiosexuality: Attraction is usually seen as a feeling directed toward another individual, but recent research has uncovered a different kind of attraction—one that is aimed at the dynamics within existing relationships. This phenomenon is called symbiosexuality, and it reveals that some people are drawn to the energy and connection between couples rather than the individuals themselves.
What Is Symbiosexuality?
Symbiosexuality refers to the attraction some individuals feel toward the relationship dynamics between two people. This means that instead of being interested in just one person, symbiosexuals are captivated by the energy and synergy that exists between both partners in a couple. This attraction is not about the physical appearance or individual personalities of the people in the relationship, but rather the unified energy, chemistry, and connection that the couple shares.
The Study Behind Symbiosexuality
The concept of symbiosexuality comes from a study led by Dr. Sally W. Johnston, a professor of anthropology and sociology at Seattle University. Her research, published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior, was part of a larger project called The Pleasure Study, which looked into various aspects of gender identity and sexual pleasure. Out of 373 participants, 145 reported experiencing attraction to a couple’s relationship rather than to individuals.
Diverse Experiences of Symbiosexuals
Dr. Johnston’s study revealed that symbiosexuality is experienced by a diverse range of people. The participants in the study varied in age, race, ethnicity, education, and social class. Many of them identified as queer or non-monogamous, suggesting that symbiosexual attraction might be more common among these groups.
The study also included in-depth interviews with 34 participants who described their experiences of being attracted to couples. These interviews uncovered that symbiosexuals are often drawn to couples who display strong intimacy, good communication, and a playful or sexually open dynamic. Some participants were attracted to the couple’s physical appearance as a unit, while others were fascinated by the couple’s unique dynamics, such as their gender diversity or queerness.
Challenges Faced by Symbiosexuals
Despite the growing recognition of symbiosexuality, those who experience it often face stigma, especially within non-monogamous communities. People who are attracted to couples are sometimes labeled as “unicorns,” a term that usually refers to someone willing to engage in romantic or sexual relationships with established couples. However, this label can oversimplify and misrepresent the genuine attraction that symbiosexuals feel towards the couple’s relationship dynamics.
Many symbiosexuals also struggle with finding the right words to describe their attraction. The lack of a widely recognized term for this type of desire can lead to feelings of uncertainty and hesitation about whether their attraction is “normal.” Dr. Johnston’s research aims to provide a better understanding of symbiosexuality, helping those who experience it to find validation and acceptance.
A New Perspective on Human Desire
Symbiosexuality challenges traditional ideas about attraction, showing that human desire can be more complex than previously thought. Rather than being limited to one-on-one connections, attraction can also be directed towards the unique energy and dynamics that exist within a relationship. This new perspective on desire highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the diverse ways people experience attraction.
Future Research on Symbiosexuality
Dr. Johnston’s study is just the beginning of understanding symbiosexuality. She plans to conduct further research to explore how symbiosexual attraction influences relationship satisfaction and mental health. She also hopes to examine the connection between symbiosexuality and compersion, a feeling of joy or contentment that some people experience when their partner is involved with someone else.
As more research is conducted, it is likely that symbiosexuality will become a more widely recognized and accepted form of attraction. This could help reduce the stigma faced by those who experience it and contribute to a more inclusive understanding of human relationships.
In conclusion, symbiosexuality is a real and significant form of attraction that offers a new perspective on human desire. By understanding and accepting this phenomenon, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those who experience this unique attraction to established couples.
