You probably started to become aware of who you’re attracted to at a very young age. For example, exposing a boy to toys traditionally made for girls, such as dolls, won’t cause him to be gay. People don’t decide who they’re attracted to, and therapy, treatment, or persuasion won’t change a person’s sexual orientation. But research shows that sexual orientation is likely caused partly by biological factors that start before birth. It’s not completely known why someone might be lesbian, gay, straight, or bisexual. Your sexual orientation can change over your lifetime. Sexual orientation is a natural part of who you are - it’s not a choice.