What Is Symbiosexuality? Defining Sexual Attraction Beyond The Binary

Human sexuality continues to evolve, with new identities and attractions being recognized and understood. One such emerging form of sexual attraction, recently identified by researchers at Seattle University, is termed "symbiosexuality." This interesting concept represents a shift in how attraction is perceived, as it offers insight into the complex dynamics of human relationships.

Symbiosexuality: Beyond Traditional Attraction

Symbiosexuality, as described in a study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior, refers to an attraction towards the energy, multidimensionality, and power shared between individuals in a relationship, rather than being drawn to an individual, a person who identifies as symbiosexual feels a deep connection to the synergy that exists between a couple. This attraction is not merely physical or emotional but one for the collective energy and interaction that a relationship embodies.

Symbiosexuality in Popular Culture: A Mirror to Society

This form of attraction can be seen reflected in various forms of media, particularly in narratives that explore complex relationship dynamics. For instance, the love triangles in television shows and movies like Tiger King, Gossip Girl, and Challengers—the latter featuring actors Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor—exemplify the kind of intricate relational interplay that might attract a symbiosexual. These stories often depict the curiosity of being involved in or witnessing a relationship's dynamics rather than just an individual within it.

Rethinking Human Attraction: Insights from Dr. Sally Johnston

Dr. Sally Johnston, an adjunct professor of anthropology and sociology who led the study, suggests that symbiosexuality challenges traditional notions of attraction, which are typically viewed as one-to-one experiences. According to Johnston, there is much more to human desire than has been previously understood. She advocates for a broader conceptualization of human attraction that goes beyond the conventional binary of monogamous pairings.

Understanding Unicorns in Polyamorous Relationships

As part of her research, Johnston also delved into the concept of "unicorns" in polyamorous relationships. In these scenarios, a unicorn refers to someone who engages sexually with a couple but remains separate from the deeper emotional aspects of the relationship. Despite the potential for sexual fulfilment, Johnston’s findings indicate that these third parties often face objectification and social isolation. This insight was obtained from The Pleasure Study, a survey of 373 participants focusing on sexual and gender identity.

Symbiosexuality and the Diversity of Attraction

The research revealed that symbiosexual attraction is not confined to a specific demographic but is experienced by a diverse group of individuals. Of the participants surveyed, a significant number expressed an attraction not to individuals but to the relational synergy of couples. This was particularly evident among participants who identified as queer and polyamorous, with many finding themselves drawn to the cohesive energy that a couple exudes.

Personal Reflections on Symbiosexuality

Participants in the study offered personal insights into their experiences with symbiosexuality. For example, Hayden, a study participant, described being attracted to the "cohesiveness" of couples, highlighting the unique interplay between partners as a source of attraction. Similarly, Sage, another participant, expressed a desire to be "smack in the middle" of a couple’s relationship, indicating a preference for a dynamic that involves multiple people.

The Psychological Dimensions of Symbiosexuality

The study also explored the psychological traits common among symbiosexuals. Many identified as extroverted, with a strong desire for intimacy, care, and attention. Interestingly, these individuals were less likely to experience jealousy, a trait that differentiates them from those who might struggle with the emotional complexities of polyamorous or multi-partner relationships.

Eden, another participant, shared their thoughts on the validation they seek within symbiosexual dynamics. The presence of multiple people in the relationship provided a sense of reassurance and fulfilment, indicating that symbiosexuality may offer a unique form of emotional support that is distinct from traditional relationships.

Symbiosexuality and the Future of Relationship Studies

As research into symbiosexuality continues, Dr. Johnston plans to expand her studies to include a broader population. She aims to explore how this emerging sexual identity impacts mental health and relationship satisfaction, hoping to reduce stigma in both monogamous and non-monogamous communities. By broadening the conceptualization of desire in sexuality studies, Johnston’s work has the potential to reshape our understanding of human attraction and the myriad ways it can manifest.