A recent study conducted by researchers at Seattle University has introduced a new form of sexual attraction known as symbiosexuality. Published in the Archives of Sexual Behaviour, the study defines symbiosexuality as an “attraction to the energy, multidimensionality, and power shared between people in relationships.” In simple terms, a symbiosexual person feels drawn to the emotional and energetic bond shared by an existing couple and desires to become part of that dynamic.
Understanding Symbiosexuality
According to the study, individuals who identify as symbiosexual are attracted not to the individuals within a relationship but to the collective energy and emotional connection between them. Dr. Sally Johnston, an adjunct professor of anthropology and sociology at Seattle University, led the study and shared insights with the New York Post.
“We need to rethink the nature of human attraction and desire as only one-to-one experiences,” Dr. Johnston explained. “Symbiosexuals experience genuine feelings toward the ‘whole’ of the relationship rather than the individual partners.”
This type of attraction is not limited by age, race, socio-economic status, or gender identity. The study notes that symbiosexuality challenges the conventional framework of human relationships and broadens the understanding of how desire and emotional connection work in complex relationship structures.
How Symbiosexuality Differs from a Threesome
While symbiosexuality involves three people in a relationship, it is distinct from a traditional threesome or throuple. In a throuple, all three individuals are primary partners and share equal emotional and romantic involvement. However, in a symbiosexual dynamic, the third person is drawn to the existing bond between the couple rather than forming an independent romantic connection with each partner.
Dr. Johnston noted that symbiosexual individuals are often treated as outsiders in both monogamous and non-monogamous communities. In some circles, they are referred to as “unicorns”—a term used to describe people who are willing to engage sexually with a couple without deeper emotional involvement. However, Johnston’s research indicates that symbiosexuals seek more than just physical connections—they are drawn to the emotional and energetic core of the couple’s relationship.
Survey and Research Findings
The study gathered data from 373 participants as part of The Pleasure Study, focusing on sexual and gender identity. Among the participants, 145 individuals reported feeling attracted to the connection shared between couples rather than the individual partners.
The research also revealed that symbiosexuals tend to have certain personality traits and emotional needs. They are often:
- Extroverted
- Highly desirous of intimacy, care, and attention
- Less likely to experience jealousy in relationships
Interestingly, the study found that symbiosexual individuals are more commonly attracted to queer and non-heterosexual couples, highlighting that this form of attraction exists across different sexual orientations and relationship structures.
Challenges and Future Research
Despite the growing awareness of symbiosexuality, those who identify with this form of attraction often face social stigma and objectification. Dr. Johnston pointed out that symbiosexuals can experience poor treatment and emotional exclusion in the relationships they join.
Johnston plans to continue her research into the psychological and emotional impact of symbiosexuality on individuals and relationship dynamics. She hopes that increased understanding will lead to greater acceptance and reduced stigma in both monogamous and non-monogamous communities.
“I hope this work will broaden the conversation about human attraction and desire,” Dr. Johnston said. “Understanding symbiosexuality can help us create more inclusive and supportive relationship models.”
Symbiosexuality presents a complex and evolving understanding of human connection and attraction. As research into this phenomenon continues, it may redefine how people view relationships and emotional intimacy in a rapidly changing social landscape.
