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There are a two main arguments concerning Asexuality:

Side 1) Asexuality is a sexuality. Simply put, those who are asexual experience no sexual attraction or otherwise to any gender. Asexual individuals find little or no interest in romance.

Note: Asexuals may identify with having a sexuality as well as being asexual (Example: gay asexuals, bi asexuals, etc.). Many argue that this isn't 'true asexuality' and that they simply have a disorder, causing lack of sexual feelings.

Side 2) Asexuality is a disorder. Many people consider asexuality to actually be hypoactive sexual disorder, which is generally when someone may feel love towards another person, but not sexual desire.


I bring this up because there are way too many Gaians asking what asexuality is; this thread is to inform, so feel free to ask as many questions as you like.

Note: This thread is focused on psychological asexuality, not physical. We are NOT discussing those who are physically unable to have sex, NOR are we discussing asexual reproduction.

FAQS SECTION:

1) Why is it called 'asexuality', then?

Because many believe that not having a sexuality actually is a sexuality.

2) How can someone be 'gay asexual', 'bi asexual', etc? I thought that asexuals didn't fall in love?

Some asexuals don't fall in love at all, but there are many who do. Instead of a sexual orientation, they have a romantic orientation, which means they love their partners but with absence of sexual desire.

3) How can asexuals maintain an intimate relationship without sex?

Asexuals have relationships with the same amount of intimacy as any 'normal' relationship, just minus the sex.

You must remember that 'love' and 'sex' are two completely separate concepts. 'Love' means something different to each individual, whereas 'sex' is one universal action.

4) So asexuals never get sexually aroused at all?

Many do have sexual attraction and desire, but just not specifically for other people.

5) Am I asexual?

You may very well be. I certainly cannot answer this; only you can do that. However, if you have any questions at all, feel more than free to ask them, or send me a pm if you are not comfortable writing about it in the thread.

THREAD DEFINITIONS

Many people who come in this thread are unaware of what some of the commonly used words mean, and/or how this thread uses them. This section is to clear up any confusion.

Sexuality: capacity for sexual feelings; a person's sexual orientation

Disorder: a disruption of normal physical or mental functions; a disease or abnormal condition

Romance: a love affair between two or more partners, not necessarily with sexual desires or attraction.

Intimacy: closely acquainted; familiar, close;

More thread definitions coming soon!

RULES

1. Actually take the time to read the OP before posting anything

2. Don't spam or bump (ALL spammers WILL be reported)

3. DO NOT QUOTE THE ENTIRE OP (it's kinda long, you see)

4. Please use proper grammar and spelling

5. Try not to get off topic


Topics to discuss:

-Is asexuality a sexuality or a disorder?

-Which is the 'true asexuality'?

-Do you believe that there are gay asexuals, bi asexuals, straight asexuals, etc.?

- What is the difference, to you, between 'love' and 'sex', if any at all?

-Your opinions about asexuality

You would think so, but there are quite a few people who claim to be both. This means that they are attracted to other people, but not in a sexual way.

There are asexuals that have sexual desire, it just doesn't pertain to a certain sex. Thus ruling out most sexuality.

I don't personally think of asexuality as a disorder any more than I think of homosexuality, bisexuality, or heterosexualit a disorder. It's just different.

Some people may not feel happy as asexuals, and I feel bad for them. A lot of them are perfectly comfortable with who they are, and that's great. I think it's probably futile to try and change their sexuality...other attempts to change sexuality have not been very successful.

No spamming, please.

No, if they have sexual desire, but only for one gender, then that doesn't make them asexual.

True, true... but then they still have sexual desire.

Edit: Well, I suppose that definition fits. Though, it would be hard to prove.