Sexual orientation is an enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and sexual attraction to men, women, both, or neither. It is distinct from gender identity, which is a person's internal sense of being male, female, or non-binary, and from sexual behaviour.

Sexual orientation is generally understood to exist on a continuum, as described by the Kinsey scale and later models. Research indicates that it is influenced by a complex interplay of biological, hormonal, and environmental factors, and is not a choice. Major orientations include heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, and asexuality. Acceptance and legal recognition vary widely across cultures and have changed substantially in many countries in recent decades.

Key points

• Enduring pattern of attraction
• Distinct from gender identity and behaviour
• Exists on a continuum
• Influenced by biological and environmental factors