Sexual Orientation
An enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction (or non-attraction) to others. Orientation differs from identity (one's self-concept) and behavior (one's actions). It can be fluid and may shift over time.
Romantic Orientation
A person's pattern of romantic attraction (or non-attraction) based on gender. For many people romantic and sexual orientations align; for others they differ significantly. The Split Attraction Model (SAM) provides the framework for understanding this distinction.
The Split Attraction Model (SAM)
A framework recognizing that sexual and romantic attraction are separate dimensions that do not have to align. Developed within asexual and aromantic communities online in the 2000s. Enables identities like "biromantic asexual" or "aromantic bisexual."
Fluidity
Many people experience their orientation or gender identity as fluid - shifting over time or in different contexts. Fluidity is a valid, stable pattern of experience that does not invalidate past or future identities.
Gender Identity
A person's internal, deeply held sense of their own gender (or lack thereof). Distinct from biological sex, gender expression, and sexual orientation. Gender identity is not visible to others and cannot be determined by appearance.
Gender Expression
How a person presents or communicates their gender through clothing, hairstyle, behavior, mannerisms, and other external cues. Can be aligned with or entirely independent of gender identity.