Asexuality is a lack of sexual interest or attraction to others, but some asexuals do have romantic relationships. It’s considered a sexual orientation by some, and studies suggest about 1% of adults are asexual. Asexuality is not the same as celibacy or abstinence. Asexuals may face challenges in being understood and pursuing romantic relationships with non-asexuals.
Asexuality is a lack of sexual interest in other people or sexual attraction to others. While asexuals aren’t interested in sex, some people who consider themselves asexual do have romantic and sexual relationships.
Asexuality is considered by many people to be a type of sexual orientation. Some people disagree with this, but others argue that although asexuals aren’t interested in sex, it’s still an aspect of sexuality, so it’s valid to classify asexuality as a sexual orientation. Asexuality is not the same as abstinence or celibacy, which are when people choose to abstain from sexual activity even though they may have an interest in it or be sexually attracted to other people.
Prevalence
The concept of asexuality first began to be explored in the 1940s and was recognized in the 1970s. By the 1990s, an asexual community had arisen, creating a network that allowed asexuals to connect with one another. Studies have suggested that approximately 1% of all adults are asexual.
Relations
Asexuality doesn’t preclude friendships, romance, and deep relationships with other people. While asexuals do not feel sexual attraction to other people, they may have romantic attraction to others and may be interested in pursuing romantic relationships. Some asexuals may identify with another sexual orientation. For example, a woman who experiences romantic attraction to other women but no sexual attraction might consider herself an asexual lesbian.
It is not the same as celibacy
Lack of interest in sex should not be confused with celibacy or abstinence, which occurs when someone has decided to abstain from sexuality for certain personal reasons. The term “celibacy” usually refers to abstaining from sex and sometimes even from all romantic relationships on a permanent, often lifelong, basis. “Abstinence” typically refers to avoiding sex until a certain time or on a temporary basis, such as waiting until after marriage. Asexuality, however, refers to a person’s natural inclinations and feelings rather than mere avoidance of sexual activities. It is possible for someone to engage in sexual activity without being sexually attracted to other people, and that would not preclude someone from being considered asexual.
Challenges faced by asexuals
While many people have become more accepting of a variety of sexual orientations, the idea of being disinterested in sex is baffling to some. Asexuals may find themselves in awkward discussions where they are told they will change their minds at some point or where their lack of interest in sex is dismissed. It can also be difficult for an asexual person to pursue a romantic relationship with someone who is interested in sex. Many asexuals prefer dating other people who identify as asexual because of the expectations that can arise in relationships with people who are not asexual.
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