A lot has been written about the various facets that come under the umbrella of the queer community. One aspect that is less discussed is the ‘A’ in that – Asexuality.

Asexuality is just another sexual orientation, much like gay and straight. It is not the same as abstinence from sexual activities, but merely the lack of sexual interest in others. It is also a low desire or the absence of desire for sexual activities.

What Exactly is Asexuality?

Asexuality is defined as the lack of interest in sex or the lack of sexual attraction towards others. You could be asexual if you masturbate and have a sex drive, but do not direct it towards others, or you may have no sex drive at all.

Asexuality is also a spectrum. There is no one definite way of being asexual. Some asexual people also want to form a long-term bond with their partner, and may also want children. 

Some asexuals enjoy kisses and hugs, some engage in sexual activity just to please their partner, some are romantic towards a specific gender, and some are aromantic. Asexuals could be straight or gay or bisexual.

Asexuality is a Spectrum

There is no one definition for asexuality because it is a spectrum. The spectrum can be viewed from two different perspectives – romantic orientation and sexual orientation.

Aces, as they are referred to in pop culture, might choose to establish romantic relationships with others, They may feel romantically attracted to other people, either of the same sex or different sexes. 

Some aces prefer friendships to intimate relationships. Others may experience arousal and not do anything about it.

Some Common Identities Under the A-spec

There are a number of identities that fall under the a-spec. Some of these are –

Aromantic

A part of romantic orientation, aromantic people experience little to no romantic attraction. They prefer intimate friendships and other types of non-romantic relationships.

Aromantic individuals might prefer to form queer platonic partnerships. These partnerships are platonic but have the same level of commitment as romantic relationships. Individuals in such a relationship might also live together or choose to have children together. 

Demisexual

Those who identify as demisexual experience sexual and or romantic attraction with someone only after forming an emotional connection with the other individual.

Greysexual/Grayromantic

Those who identify as greysexual or greyromantic lie somewhere between the sexual-asexual spectrum. 

These individuals might experience only romantic attractions sometimes, or only sexual attraction sometimes.

Some who identify as greysexuals might also desire and enjoy romantic and sexual relationships but only under specific circumstances.