How+Do+I+Know?

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Unfortunately, there is no easy way to determine if you are gay. There are no scientific tests or stereotypes that determine your sexuality. You can only find out through experience and feelings. Most define being gay as having a strong bond or sexual attraction to someone of the same gender as you. Others define it as a lifestyle which includes behaviors and social interactions.

You should ask yourself several questions about your sexuality and sexual preferences. Are you physically attracted to someone of the same sex? Do you feel an emotional bond with them? Would you consider an intimate relationship with them?


 * Just know that attractions are not written in stone**, but at the same time they can not be turned on or off like a light switch. Sexuality is a very complex thing, and science is just beginning to understand how much of it works. There are many things that are still a mystery. We do know that for some people, attraction, and orientation can shift to some degree. Some people find that they can shift much more than others, and we do not really know why.

Second of all it is normal for people to feel a variety of attractions, particularly during adolescence. The fact that you feel one attraction does not mean you can’t feel another attraction, or two different attractions at the same time.

Just know that having conflicting thoughts about sexuality and doubting one's own sexuality is normal. Some people just know while some struggle with what others think, what their families will think, and if admitting so would change them. The point is - be true to yourself and who you are.

That's So Gay[[image:quirk.jpg width="233" height="203" align="right"]]
In our society we have all sorts of ideas about signs that someone is gay. For example, some people think that liking or not liking sports (depending on your gender) is a sign of being gay. Others assume that music, clothing, choice in activities or career can all be signs that someone is gay.

If you are worried about being gay because people have told you are because of any of those things…__relax__. They are being ignorant.
 * So let’s be perfectly clear, being different in any of those areas has nothing to do with your attraction, orientation, or identity.**

Have you been subjected to others assuming something about your attraction, orientation or identity?
[|Share your story]

What is Attraction?
However many people question whether they are gay because they are feeling attractions and want to know what it means. It can be pretty nerve wracking questioning “Will I always feel this way?” or “Does this mean I am Gay?”

But remember, no one can tell you that. If what you are questioning is “Do I have a homosexual orientation” the only way to determine that is to wait and see. Remember that orientation is the general direction of attraction over time. Most times the best way to clarify an orientation is to give it time. Up to 25% of youth are unsure of their orientation in grade 9, but by grade 12 only 9% are still unsure.

Regardless of gender, what attracts you to an individual?
[|Share your opinion]



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