Battle of the Brains

Scientists may have explained why gay men and straight women are often best friends—they share the same brain shapes in areas that control emotion, mood and anxiety. Researchers believe these brain functions may be the sum of attraction. The think tanks are unsure if the similar brain shapes are inherited or due to exposure to hormones such as testosterone in the womb. Oddly enough, lesbians and straight men also have the similar brain symmetry.

The study by Sweden's Karolinska Institute adds to the wide open nature versus nurture debate. Although many believe that being gay is a combination of genetics and environment, no study has been conclusive enough to explain the origin of sexuality.

Authors of the brain study wrote, "These observations motivate more extensive investigations of larger study groups and prompt for a better understanding of the neurobiology of homosexuality."

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Debate: Born or Made Gay?
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_{Image © Aaron Balogh.}