Thats gay your gay

Home / gay topics / Thats gay your gay

This exploration of gender and sexuality can sometimes feel weird, but it's a natural part of understanding who you are. The term "gay" was initially a slang term developed to overcome some of these negative associations. This difference can be related to gender or sexuality. Talking about your gender and sexuality can be helpful.

While "gay" can be thought of as a synonym to "homosexual," there is more to the meaning of gay than that.

Definition of Gay

Homosexuality is considered to be same-sex sexual attraction and behavior and "gay" is a synonym of homosexuality. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below!

thats gay your gay

It's okay to not understand everything right away. It's part of your identity.

  • "You need to have experience to be sure." You don’t need to date or sleep with anyone to know your orientation—your feelings and attractions are valid on their own. You don't need anything to validate your feelings.
  • Questions to Ask Yourself

    If you’re still unsure, consider asking yourself:

    • Who do I find myself crushing on?

      To an interviewer writing in Salon, he states that “the U.S. is a decade behind the U.K. on this particular front.”

      Why is that?, McCormack is asked. Understanding your sexuality, whether you are gay, lesbian, bi, pansexual, or straight, is a process. It’s completely okay to question and take your time figuring things out.

      Being gay means experiencing romantic and/or sexual attraction to people of the same gender.

      You might learn something new and feel better. This might mean you are gay, lesbian, bi, pansexual, or another identity within the LGBTQ+ community.

    • You Feel a Sense of Relief When You Consider Being Gay – If embracing the idea of being gay feels right, comforting, or exciting, that’s a strong indicator of your identity. Take charge and make your own!

      Never give up on understanding yourself. It may not be intended as a homophobic slur, but it is experienced by many in the LGBTQ+ community--including young people--as a microaggression.

      What is a microaggression? This is true for many within the LGBTQ+ community, including those who identify as gay, lesbian, or bi.

    • "Being gay is just a phase." Sexuality can evolve, but if you consistently have feelings for the same gender, it’s likely not just a phase.

      Is it with a man, a woman, or someone else?

    • Do I feel comfortable labeling myself, or do I prefer to stay open about my gender and sexuality? There's no reason to rush.

      Helpful Resources

      If you're looking for support, consider these resources:

      • Trevor Project (For LGBTQ+ youth support) – www.thetrevorproject.org
      • PFLAG (For LGBTQ+ individuals and their families) – www.pflag.org
      • GLAAD (LGBTQ+ advocacy) – www.glaad.org

      Final Thoughts

      Discovering your sexuality is a journey, not a test.

      Sexuality exists on a spectrum, and it’s completely normal to take time to figure out where you feel most comfortable. Whether you identify as gay, bisexual, queer, lesbian, pansexual, or straight, the most important thing is to embrace who you are.