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Sexual variation and mental health*

Abstract Background: Cultures play a significant role not only in the causation and management of emotional distress and psychiatric disorders but also in sexual variation and attitudes towards sexual minority groups. Aim: To discuss the potential impact of culture on sexual minorities. Method: This lecture reviews the relation between sexuality, culture and mental health. Results: Cultures define what is deviant and unacceptable or even illegal. Attitudes to sex, perceived role of and actual sexual activity are very strongly influenced by cultural values. Cultures may see sexual activity as largely procreative (sex-negative) or as a pleasurable (sex-positive) activity. Furthermore, gender roles and gender role expectations influence relationships between different-sex partners. Although epidemiological data on prevalence of sexual minorities across cultures are scanty, it may reflect underlying attitudes to minority groups. Conclusions: It is crucial that clinicians are aware of the role that culture plays in acceptance or rejection of sexual minorities.