Symbiosexual

[amuse.ed]

Interesting concept that may explain why people attracted to each other beyond the personal, physical and sensual attributes.

 

October 10, 2024 ·  5 min read

Some People Are Coming Out As ‘Symbiosexual’ – Here’s What It Means

In recent years, symbiosexuality has emerged as a new term in the growing landscape of sexual identities. Some may initially dismiss it as another niche label. However, the concept has captured the attention of many who feel that it describes their unique attraction experiences. Symbiosexuality refers to a form of attraction where individuals are not drawn to a specific person based on their physical or personal attributes, but rather to the energy shared between two or more people in a relationship. This energy, described by symbiosexuals as dynamic, multifaceted, and powerful, is what fuels their desire.

The key difference between symbiosexual attraction and more conventional forms of desire lies in the focus on relational energy. According to Dr. Sally Johnston, an adjunct professor of Anthropology and Sociology at Seattle University, symbiosexual individuals are fascinated by the synergy and the emotional connection that flows between partners in a relationship. “They’re not necessarily attracted to the people themselves, but to the dynamic that emerges from their connection,” Johnston explains.

 

This focus on relational energy may be surprising to those unfamiliar with the concept. Traditional attraction is often viewed as based on physical appearance or emotional attachment to one person. However, symbiosexuality challenges this notion by centering the relationship itself as the object of desire.

While symbiosexuality may appear to align with the practices of polyamory—where multiple partners share romantic or intimate connections—it is not limited to this type of relationship.

 

Symbiosexual attraction can occur in monogamous relationships, too. The key factor remains the energy shared between the individuals involved, which becomes the focal point of attraction. For some, this attraction may manifest in the form of admiration for a close bond. While others may experience a desire to be a part of that shared connection.

 

As Dr. Johnston puts it, “There’s a significant group of people who find themselves deeply moved by the power of the connection between two people, regardless of whether they’re personally involved with either of those individuals. The relationship itself becomes the object of attraction”.

Symbiosexuality challenges the conventional wisdom around sexual and romantic attraction by moving away from individual-centric desires.

 

Traditional attraction often focuses on specific traits such as physical appearance, personality, or shared interests. In contrast, symbiosexuality reimagines attraction as something rooted in the overall dynamic of a relationship, where the bond between two or more people becomes a source of fascination and desire.

 

This shift in perspective has prompted some to question what it means to truly be attracted to someone.

 

Symbiosexuals see the relationship as greater than the sum of its parts, finding the shared energy between partners to be far more compelling than any one person’s characteristics. In this way, symbiosexuality invites us to rethink how desire operates and expands the possibilities for how individuals experience attraction.

As this new identity gains recognition, it is becoming clear that the population of people identifying as symbiosexual is more diverse than initially expected. According to Dr. Johnston’s research, many people from different walks of life have reported experiencing symbiosexual attraction. “What surprised me the most was the sheer number of people who related to this concept.” Johnston remarked, adding that symbiosexual attraction cuts across a variety of demographics and relationship structures.

 

The growing visibility of this orientation underscores its resonance with a wide range of individuals. Whether they are part of polyamorous communities, monogamous partnerships, or more fluid relationship structures, symbiosexuals are finding that this term helps them articulate their unique experiences of attraction. This broadening of identity highlights the increasingly diverse ways that people are expressing and understanding their desires.

As with any new sexual identity, some may wonder whether symbiosexuality is merely a fleeting trend or a legitimate orientation that will stand the test of time. Early research and anecdotal reports suggest that symbiosexuality is here to stay. As more people are coming forward to share their experiences and find community among like-minded individuals.

 

Symbiosexuals are drawn not just to physical attributes but to what some describe as the “multidimensionality” of relationships, which includes emotional, intellectual, and even spiritual energy. This energy, they argue, is the true object of their desire. Some have likened symbiosexuality to being in awe of the shared connection between partners. And this relational energy becomes more important than the individuals themselves.

In recent years, the conversation about sexual orientation and identity has expanded to include a wide variety of experiences and labels. From pansexuality to asexuality, the spectrum of human attraction has proven to be more diverse than many previously imagined. Symbiosexuality adds yet another layer to this conversation by highlighting how relational dynamics can play a central role in desire.

 

Experts believe that as more people come out as symbiosexual, the term will gain further legitimacy and understanding. Already, symbiosexuality has been discussed in academic and social circles, with researchers like Dr. Johnston leading the charge in redefining how attraction is studied and understood. As society becomes more open to new ways of thinking about desire, symbiosexuality is poised to become a significant part of the evolving narrative. This includes surrounding love, attraction, and relationships.

 

In Conclusion

Symbiosexuality offers a fresh perspective on the nature of attraction, one that places the energy between people at the forefront. For symbiosexuals, the bond shared between partners is far more compelling than the individuals themselves. And this unique orientation is giving many people a new way to understand and express their desires.

 

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