There is a new word for what we think about sexuality that keeps growing: symbiosexualism. This idea isn’t about being attracted to a specific person, but to the energy and relationship between two people who are already together.
Researchers at Seattle University have looked into this and found that it shows how complicated human desire is. Their research shows that symbiosexual people are interested in the variety and power that connections offer. This attraction isn’t meant to replace or mess up the two people’s relationship; it’s just drawn to how well they work together.
The study, which polled 373 people, found that a lot of people are romantically and sexually attracted to the way two people interact with each other. This goes against the idea that love can only happen between two people.
The study’s leader, Dr. Sally Johnston, says that we need to rethink how we draw and desire things. “We need to recognise that attraction can take many forms, including being drawn to the energy between two people,” she says.
The study also shows that symbiosexual people, even those who are part of polyamorous groups, don’t get enough support and respect. This can lead to discrimination and shame, which shows how important it is to understand and accept others better.
As more study is done on this topic, it becomes clear that symbiosexualism is a real and complicated part of human sexuality. As long as we recognise and celebrate this variety, we can work to make society more open and caring.
People who took part in the study, like Hayden and Sage, are attracted to each other in a way that is based on symbiosexuality. “I’m drawn to how well the couple works together,” Hayden says. “I want to be smack in the middle of that relationship,” Sage says.
As our knowledge of sexuality grows, it’s important to have these kinds of talks with compassion and an open mind. Therefore, we can make the space more welcoming and open for people of all sexual orientations and tastes.
