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Chapter 2 (continued)
Biologic Theories (cont.)
Conclusions
Despite the extensive criticism of the studies discussed above, they do provide enough evidence to suggest that there may be relationships between biologic factors and homosexuality. There is not enough data as yet to suggest what the specific relationships may be or what the precise causes and effects are. For example, chromosome research and twin studies show only a correlation between genetic factors and homosexuality. Correlation is a way of saying, “Where X is present, Y is also often present.” A correlation tells us nothing about why X and Y are often present together, and it does not mean that X caused Y or vice versa. But it does provide some clues as to where we might look for more answers.
Byne and Parson concluded that, “There is no evidence at present to substantiate a biologic theory.”3(p228) Their statement echoes what other researchers have said for at least the last 20 years. In 1989, John De Cecco, editor of the Journal of Homosexuality, was quoted as saying that, “The idea that people are born into one type of sexual behavior is foolish.”13(p91) Masters, Brown and Kolodny stated in 1984 that, “The genetic theory of homosexuality has been generally discarded today.”14(p91) And in 1974, John Money write, “The child’s psychosexual identity is not written, unlearned, in the genetic code, the hormonal system or the nervous system at birth.”15(p91)
At the same time, Byne and Parson also said that, “there is no compelling evidence to support any singular PSYCHOSOCIAL explanation.”3(p228) This refers to the types of theories presented in chapter 1. They added, however, that just because the psychosocial theories do not fully explain the development of homosexuality, there is no justification for ignoring them in favor of purely biologic explanations, particularly since the biologic theories do not explain it any better. They feel that the value of psychosocial models is being generally underrated.3(p228)
One final thought regarding biologic theories must be considered. Human bodies are biological organisms. This obvious fact reminds us that, for the extent of our lives, we are subject to biological givens and processes. Because our brain is part of this biological organism it can be said that all human thought and behavior has a biological basis. Yet the complexity and sophistication of the mind equips it with an awareness of itself and with the capacity to choose. So, in this sense, most human thought and behavior—though based on biology—also represents choice.
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PSYCHOSOCIAL: a term used to describe any situation or condition that involves both psychological and social factors. 16(p596)