Sexual identity is defined as the recognition and acknowledgment of oneself as a sexual being. It is determined by a complex interaction of genetic, physiological, environmental and social factors. Occurring at conception, the start of sexual identity begins with the combining of chromosomes as a sex determinant. All eggs carry an X sex chromosome and sperm carry either an X or a Y chromosome. The resulting integration of two X chromosomes provides a template to produce a female. The combination of XY sex chromosomes produces a male. The understanding of gender roles, contact with people of various gender identities or sexual orientations and the degree of emotional maturity can all affect an individuals sense of sexual identity. Whereas sexual
