By Editor
In recent years, sexual identities have expanded and evolved, with terms like throuples, polyamory, and unicorns becoming more familiar. Now, a new term is taking the internet by storm: symbiosexuality. Sparked by pop culture references like Zendaya’s film Challengers, where her character is romantically involved with two men, symbiosexuality is the latest concept to intrigue social media users.
What Is Symbiosexuality?
Symbiosexuality refers to a unique form of attraction where an individual is drawn to an existing couple, captivated by the shared energy, love, and synergy between the two partners. This emerging identity is gaining recognition thanks to a study conducted by researchers at Seattle University, published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior. The researchers describe symbiosexuals as those who find the power and multidimensionality of a couple’s relationship alluring, often feeling a romantic or sexual attraction to the dynamic shared between the couple.
The Nature of Symbiosexual Attraction:
Dr. Sally W. Johnston, an adjunct professor of anthropology and sociology who led the study, argues that the traditional understanding of human attraction as solely a one-to-one experience needs to be reconsidered. Symbiosexuals are not merely attracted to one person in the relationship but to the “whole” of the relationship—the love and connection that exists between the two people. This attraction is described as being “greater than the sum of its parts,” where the individual desires to immerse themselves in the couple’s shared bond.
Challenges and Misconceptions:
Despite its growing recognition, symbiosexuality is often misunderstood and stigmatized. In both monogamous and non-monogamous communities, symbiosexuals may be labeled as “unicorns”—a term that traditionally refers to a bisexual woman who engages sexually with a heterosexual couple but is not involved in other aspects of the relationship. This label can carry negative connotations, particularly within non-monogamous communities, where it often implies objectification and poor treatment of the third party.
Dr. Johnston’s study highlights that while symbiosexuals may face stigmatization, they represent a diverse and genuine attraction that deserves recognition and understanding. This emerging sexual identity challenges traditional notions of love and desire, suggesting that the dynamics between couples can be a source of attraction in their own right.
Conclusion:
As the conversation around sexual identity continues to evolve, symbiosexuality offers a new perspective on how people experience love and attraction. Whether it’s the allure of the synergy within a relationship or the desire to be part of a couple’s shared energy, symbiosexuals are redefining what it means to love and connect with others. As society begins to understand and accept this emerging identity, the nature of relationships and attraction may continue to expand in ways we never imagined.
