You might have heard of bisexuality or pansexuality, but have you ever come across symbiosexuality?
This relatively new concept refers to being attracted to the energy and dynamic between two or more people in a relationship.
A recent study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior has shed more light on this phenomenon, and we’re here to break it down for you.
What is Symbiosexuality?
According to researcher Sally W. Johnston, symbiosexuality is “an attraction to the energy, multidimensionality, and power shared between people in relationships.”
It’s not about being attracted to individuals or their genders, but rather the bond and connection between them.
This form of attraction is observed across various ages, racial backgrounds, socio-economic classes, and gender identities, with many individuals identifying as polyamorous or queer.
What Draws People to Symbiosexuality?
The study revealed some interesting insights into what people find attractive about symbiosexual relationships. Here are some of the key factors:
- Energy and Cohesion: Many participants were drawn to the synergy and connection between couples, describing it as highly appealing.
- Charisma: The chemistry and magnetism of a couple can be more enticing than individual traits.
- Multidimensionality: Participants appreciated the complexity that arises from shared experiences, emotions, and histories between partners.
- Power and Strength: Some were attracted to the power created by a partnership, such as mutual support and shared goals.
- Intimacy and Relationship Quality: People were drawn to couples who demonstrated a strong, healthy, and loving relationship, marked by good communication and mutual respect.
- Physical Appearance as a Unit: Some found the way couples look together physically appealing.
- Playfulness and Fun: The playful and fun dynamics of some couples were a significant draw.
- Gender and Sexual Queerness: Some individuals were attracted to the fluidity of gender and sexual expression within the relationship.
Why Recognition Matters
Symbiosexuality remains largely invisible and underexplored in both cultural and academic discourse.
This lack of recognition can lead to negative impacts, including stigma and discrimination against those who experience this form of attraction.
Even within the polyamorous community, there is often invalidation of symbiosexual attraction. Recognizing symbiosexuality can help validate the experiences of those who feel attraction to relational dynamics and challenge conventional boundaries of sexual orientation and desire.
By acknowledging and understanding symbiosexuality, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for everyone. So, let’s keep the conversation going and explore more about this fascinating topic!