How much of sexual orientation is innate? Can being gay or straight be societally influenced?

Sex ual orientation is a complex and mult if ac eted aspect of a person ' s identity , and there is ongoing debate about the extent to which it is inn ate or influenced by societ al factors . Some research suggests that sexual orientation may have a genetic component , as individuals who identify as gay , les bian , or bis ex ual tend to have more same - sex attraction than those who do not . However , it is also clear that environmental and social factors can play a significant role in sh aping an individual ' s sexual orientation . \n \n For example , studies have shown that exposure to positive representations of same - sex relationships in media and popular culture can increase the likelihood that individuals will identify as gay , les bian , or bis ex ual . Similarly , experiences of discrimination and harass ment based on sexual orientation can lead individuals to suppress their true feelings and identify as straight . \n \n Over all , it is likely that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to an individual ' s sexual orientation , and that the extent to which one or the other plays a role may vary from person to person . It is important to remember that sexual orientation is a natural and normal aspect of human identity , and that all individuals have the right to express their sexual ity in a way that is authentic and fulfill ing to them . </s>