Genesis of Sexual Orientation: From Plato to Dorner

This article examines the genesis of sexual preference. Since human beings
as a species are unique in that they have a sexual orientation toward their own gender (homosexuality) as well
as the opposite sex (heterosexuality), how or where this preference begins is of interest. This paper examines
the research and focuses on how and why some fetuses lack male hormones at the end of pregnancy, which
along with stress responses may trigger a high level of activity in the mother’s adrenal glands impacting the
developing child’s later sexual orientation. Options for future research are also discussed. KEY WORDS: Sexual
orientation, heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality.