Factors influencing erotic orientation development in females and males

Despite widespread public and professional interest, researchers have been unable to empirically validate causal theories of sexual orientation development. In a previous study (Storms & Wasserman, Note 1), Storms' (1981) theory of erotic orientation development was tested. Storms has suggested that erotic orientation is the underlying psychological factor which motivates actual sexual behavior and determines sexual identity (Storms, 1980). Storms' theory proposes that adult erotic orientation development is influenced by an interaction of sexual development and socio-sexual cues. More specifically, it is hypothesized that the timing of the onset of sexual maturation is a critical aspect of sexual development, although not the only important factor, and that social bonding patterns during late childhood and early adolescence is a critical source of socio-sexual cues, although not the only source of such cues. Thus, it is predicted that one determinant of adult homoerotic orientation is the precocious onset of erotic development during late childhood (ages 8-13). For a complete reprint of this article contact Haworth Press by telephone (1-800-HAWORTH) or EMAIL (getinfo@haworthpressinc.com). Article copyright The Haworth Press, Inc.