What Is Asexuality? What Does “Sexual Attraction” Mean?
In recent years, the term “asexual” has gradually gained more recognition. Characters in dramas and movies are now more frequently illustrated as asexual. You may have even seen people identifying as “asexual” or “Ace” on their social media profiles.
At Palettalk, we often share information about asexuality through manga. This time, we want to take a moment to summarize the question: “What does it mean to be asexual?”
Definition of Asexuality
Asexuality refers to individuals who do not feel sexual attraction to anyone or only experience it in very limited situations. As the term includes “sexual,” it is recognized as a type of sexual orientation and is part of the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
Of course, even though we use the term “asexual” as a single word, there are small differences and individual perspectives within it.
Each person who identifies as asexual interprets their experience of sexuality differently, and it exists like a spectrum. This spectrum, or gradation, allows for a variety of categories to exist based on where a person falls on it. Such as:
- (Narrow Definition of) Asexuality: People who do not experience sexual attraction or do not feel a fundamental desire to engage in sexual relationships.
- Demisexual: Individuals who only feel sexual attraction or desire after forming a deep emotional connection with someone. (This is different from simply choosing to wait until certain conditions are met before engaging in sexual activity.)
- Greysexual: People who fall between asexual and sexual (those who are not asexual). Examples include individuals who rarely experience sexual attraction, only feel it under specific circumstances, or place very little importance on sexual relationships in their lives.
All of these variations within the asexual spectrum are collectively referred to as “Ace.”
What Is “Sexual Attraction” In the First Place?
When discussing asexuality, an important concept is “sexual attraction.” In societies where sexual desire and romantic feelings are often seen as the norm, and where sexual relationships are considered a natural extension of romantic relationships, people may not often pause to analyze what “sexual attraction” actually means.
Sexual attraction refers to the desire to have a sexual relationship with someone or to share sexual intimacy. Asexuality is defined as not experiencing this type of attraction toward others.
As mentioned earlier, sexual attraction is often understood in connection with romantic attraction, but in reality, many people view these as separate experiences. The experience of “being attracted to someone” can take many forms beyond sexual attraction.
For example:
- Aesthetic Attraction: Feeling drawn to someone’s appearance, without necessarily experiencing romantic or sexual attraction.
- Romantic Attraction: Wanting to form a romantic relationship or feeling strong romantic emotions toward someone.
- Sensual Attraction: Desiring non-sexual physical affection, such as cuddling, hugging, or kissing, that does not necessarily lead to sexual intimacy.
Even if you are reading this article and do not identify as asexual, you might find that your experiences with attraction fall on a spectrum, such as:
“I’ve never experienced aesthetic attraction.”
“I tend to feel certain types of attraction very strongly.”
Misconceptions and Prejudices About Asexuality
Although asexuality has gained more visibility in recent years, including through representation as characters such as in dramas, it is still not widely understood. As a result, many misconceptions and biases still remain.
“Asexual People Don’t Feel Romantic Love”
Some asexual individuals do not experience romantic attraction, but this is not true for all. Many asexual people enjoy forming romantic relationships and experience romantic feelings. Those who do not feel romantic attraction are referred to as aromantic.
“Asexuality Is Caused by Trauma or Illness”
There is a common prejudice linking asexuality to mental health issues or past trauma. However, asexuality is a natural sexual orientation, not a result of illness or abnormality.
“Asexual People Are Immature and Will Eventually Change”
Another misconception is that not feeling sexual attraction is a “temporary phase” that will pass with time. This is incorrect. Asexuality is a valid sexual orientation, not a momentary state tied to age or experience. While a person’s understanding of their own sexuality may evolve over time, it is important to respect how they identify in the present.
Conclusion
In our society, there remains a strong emphasis on sexual relationships, and sexual and romantic attraction are often treated as inseparable. This can lead to misunderstandings or prejudiced remarks toward asexual individuals, as well as feelings of self-doubt—wondering if something is “wrong” with them. However, a person’s worth is not determined by whether or not they experience sexual attraction.
By spreading accurate knowledge about asexuality, which is still not widely recognized, we can work toward a society where everyone can live authentically and comfortably.
At Palettalk, we welcome stories and experiences from asexual individuals. Please feel free to share yours via this form.
References
Miyake Daijiro, Imatoku Haruka, Kanbayashi Mai, Nakamura Ken, The Easiest Guide to Aromantic and Asexual (Akashi Shoten, 2024)
https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
https://www.asexuality.org/?q=general.html
(Translation: Jennifer Martin)