Michael Bailey, a psychologist at Northwestern University tackled a popular question concerning homo-sexual men and women: Are gays and lesbians born homosexual? The Telegraph’s science correspondent Sarah Knapton reported on Bailey’s research that brought up a great deal of criticism from both conservatives and the LGBT community. However, not very many definitive answers were found.
Through his studies Bailey discovered a particular gene on a region of the X chromosome called Xq28 which is often found within gay men. The gene appeared to be what caused men to have a same-sex-attraction, and those who had this gene had around 40 percent chance of identifying themselves as homo-sexual.
The psychologist could not deny that genes played a role in determining one’s sexual orientation. However, the Xq28 gene was not the determining factor in causing homosexuality. First of all, lesbian women do not have this particular gene, so one cannot just conclude that homosexuality is something inherent. In addition, Bailey had this to say:
“Our findings suggest there may be genes at play – we found evidence for two sets that affect whether a man is gay or straight. But it is not completely determinative; there are certainly other factors involved. The study shows that there are genes in male sexual orientation. Although this could lead to a pre-natal test for male sexual orientation, it would not be very accurate, as there are other facts that can influence the outcome.”
Though no real answers were yet found that can explain the cause of homosexuality, many have expressed great interest in the question.
