Symbiosexuals: A new sexuality has emerged, according to researchers at Seattle University, called “symbiosexuality.” Symbiosexuals are people who are not just attracted to individuals but to the dynamic energy shared between couples. This concept was introduced in a recent study led by Dr. Sally Johnston, an adjunct professor of Anthropology and Sociology. While some find the idea intriguing, others are questioning its relevance and the need for such a study.
What is Symbiosexuality?
Symbiosexuality is a type of attraction where individuals are drawn to the relationship between two people, rather than to one person in the relationship. This new term was coined by Dr. Johnston and her team after conducting research on the subject. The study was published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior and focuses on people who experience this unique form of attraction.
In her research, Dr. Johnston explored how some people, especially those in polyamorous communities, are attracted to the “energy” or “synergy” between couples. This attraction goes beyond just being interested in a single person and instead focuses on the dynamics of a couple’s relationship.
The Study Behind Symbiosexuality
Dr. Johnston’s study involved 373 participants who shared their sexual and gender identities. Out of these, 145 participants admitted to feeling attracted to the dynamics of a couple at least once in their lives. Interestingly, 90% of these individuals identified as “queer.” The study suggests that symbiosexual attraction might be a real, though unrecognized, form of sexuality.
Dr. Johnston was motivated to explore this topic due to her personal experiences within the polyamorous community, where she often heard people discussing their attraction to established couples. She believes that understanding this attraction could help expand our knowledge of human desire and relationships.
Mixed Reactions to the Study
Despite the intriguing findings, the study has sparked mixed reactions. Some people appreciate having a term to describe this type of attraction, especially those within polyamorous communities. One participant, who went by the name “Hayden,” explained that her attraction to couples comes from a fascination with the “cohesiveness” of their relationship. Others, like “Sage,” described feeling excitement and fulfillment by being involved with a couple.
However, many people, especially online, have criticized the study. Some commenters questioned the necessity of researching symbiosexuality, arguing that it might be a waste of resources. Others went as far as to call it an attempt to “normalize” certain behaviors that they view as problematic. One commenter referred to the study as a form of “psychic vampirism,” accusing symbiosexuals of trying to insert themselves into established relationships.
The Controversy Around Symbiosexuality
The backlash against the study raises important questions about how society views new and alternative forms of sexuality. Some people feel that exploring these types of attractions is essential for broadening our understanding of human relationships. Others believe that resources could be better spent on more pressing issues.
Dr. Johnston has acknowledged the limitations of her study, admitting that the sample size was small and the findings cannot be generalized to the broader population. She also pointed out that the study used convenience and snowball sampling, which means the results are preliminary and should be interpreted with caution.
Conclusion
The concept of symbiosexuality has certainly stirred debate. For some, it provides a name for a type of attraction they have experienced but couldn’t previously define. For others, it raises concerns about the direction of sexual research and whether such studies are necessary.
While symbiosexuality might be a new term, the feelings behind it are not entirely unfamiliar. The study has opened up a conversation about the different ways people experience attraction and the complexities of human relationships. Whether or not symbiosexuality will gain wider recognition remains to be seen, but it has already made an impact by challenging traditional views of love and desire.
As with any emerging concept, further research will be needed to explore the full implications of symbiosexuality. In the meantime, it continues to be a topic of discussion, both in academic circles and among the general public.
