Cultural universals and differences in male homosexuality: the case of a Brazilian fishing village

Arch Sex Behav. 2005 Feb;34(1):103-9. doi: 10.1007/s10508-005-1004-x.

Abstract

This study investigated whether homosexually identified males in a small Brazilian fishing community are similar to homosexually identified males described in the international literature. In addition, it attempted to distinguish heterosexuals who have sex with homosexuals from other heterosexuals. A total of 41 men were classified into three sexual categories: paneleiros ("pan cabinets"), who have sex only with men, and invariably so in a bottom position; persistent heterosexuals, who have sex only with women; and paneleiro lovers, who have sex with women and with paneleiros, but invariably in a top position. There were significant differences in childhood play activities, sexual inclinations, and sports preferences between paneleiros and non-paneleiros; however, paneleiro lovers and persistent heterosexuals were not significantly different with regard to these variables or with regard to access to women. These findings add to the cross-cultural literature on childhood cross-gender behavior and homoerotic activities among non-homosexually identified males.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brazil
  • Cultural Characteristics*
  • Heterosexuality* / psychology
  • Homosexuality, Male* / psychology
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Play and Playthings*
  • Psychosexual Development*
  • Rural Population
  • Surveys and Questionnaires