I'm beginning to work as a therapist and work with a lot of clients on issues related to sex, sexuality, sexual appetite, sexual orientation, kink, and so on. Obviously there is a biological and neurochemical component to sexual attraction, but I don't buy the idea that all experiences of sexual attraction are predicated upon evolutionary instincts to procreate healthily.
How are sexual impulses based on gender actually created/experienced? Why do some people experience attraction to femininity or masculinity or both or neither? How does physiology intersect with psychology? What is the overlap between sexual attraction and desire for intimacy and connection?
I'm interested in the psychology and internal narrative components of attraction, not necessarily the neurochemical experience. I'm hoping there is some good nonfictional literature out there someone can recommend!
by jayelled