This should be where our discussion begins, after all, but it turns out to be somewhat more complicated that we might have expected. After you determine a good, inclusive definition of homosexuality, bring up the question of other sexual orientations. Mention that this is a matter of wildly varying individuals trying to fit themselves into limited terminology. The language and ideas of our culture seem to make categories of sexuality black and white, but defining it on an individual level, as we have seen, can be very difficult. Many researchers have come up with different ways of categorizing sexual orientations, but none has discovered a reliable system.
Many people have to make their own definitions and categorize themselves individually.
You might find five bisexuals who each have a completely different definition of that same term. This shows us that the path to defining one's sexuality is a very personal one, in part because it often involves coming up with new terms for oneself. Often, heterosexuals don't have to go down this path, as they are fortunate enough to fit in with the definitions that society provides. But they are all asked of gay and lesbian people on a regular basis. As we continue in this panel, think about what a tricky process figuring out one's sexuality can be, especially when faced by such confusing questions.