The expert explains what sexual orientation is characterized by little or no interest in sex
Asexuality, also known as asexual spectrum, is a sexual orientation characterized by little or no interest in sex, regardless of gender. That is, the asexual individual does not feel the desire to practice his sexuality with all the impositions that the act requires.
“Asexuals have feelings, but not the total desire to have sex. That is, the feeling of love and sexual attraction are not necessarily associated. Romantic attraction can exist, but not sexual attraction,” explains Andrea Ladislau, psychoanalyst and specialist in Psychopedagogy and Digital Inclusion.
Sub-orientations of asexuality
Unlike others sexual orientations, asexuality is considered a term encompassing several sub-orientations. Below, psychoanalyst Andrea Ladislau cites the characteristics of the main six:
- Narrow asexual: does not experience sexual attraction under any circumstances and at any time;
- Greysexual: experience reduced sexual attraction, regardless of the affective / emotional bond;
- Demisexual: experience sexual attraction only when it develops an affective/emotional bond;
- Fraysexual: experiences sexual attraction only when no bond is formed;
- Cupiosexual: does not feel attracted to others, but has sexual desires and a desire to have an active sex life;
- Asexual fluid: oscillates between demisexual and greysexual.
Ways to identify asexuality
To identify asexuality, whether under any of the sub-guidelines, requires a thorough investigation. In it, the individual will have to answer some internal questions relating to the way of interacting with the other and to one’s own emotional reactions. According to Andrea Ladislau, the main questions to be answered are:
- Does sexual attraction exist?
- Is there an attraction to other people, regardless of gender?
- There is an inner pressure to love sex and having to relate to other people?
- Is there an internal submission to the sexual act out of fear of judgement?
- Is the routine lived lightly without the need for sexual practice?
The psychoanalyst explains that the answers to these questions will not necessarily indicate whether the person is asexual or not. However, they can be of great help in the process of discovering sexual orientation.
Importance of psychotherapy
In addition to internal investigation, psychological treatment is also important to the process of discovering and understanding asexuality. Andrea Ladislau comments that the psychotherapy it can help the person to know himself better, to define his priorities, to determine his limits and to recognize his inner desires.
“In this way, the individual will be able to protect himself from the prejudices and patterns imposed by current society. That is, through specific tools, therapy helps in the construction of the ‘real me'”, explains the psychoanalyst.
Difference between lack of libido and asexuality
Although asexuality has as its main characteristic the total or partial absence of desire for sex, there is a difference between this sexual orientation and a lack of sex. libido (sexual impulse). “The absence of libido can be related to behavioral, cultural or even biological issues; while asexuality is the lack or low sexual desire by choice, without external interference. Asexual people have libido, but this instinct is not necessarily erotic “, evaluates Andrea Ladislau.
Myths about asexuality
As with other sexual orientations, lack of information and prejudice cause many myths to form around asexuality. Below, see some of them:
- Is asexuality a hormonal problem?
According to Andrea Ladislau, asexual people may have hormonal problems, but the total or partial lack of sexual attraction is not related to this.
- Have asexual people experienced childhood trauma?
The psychoanalyst points out that people who have suffered trauma feel sexual desirebut suppressed by
Fear. Asexuals, in turn, simply don’t see sex as essential, not having their orientation tied to negative emotional experiences.
- Is a person asexual just because they have never tried sex?
Andrea Ladislau states that the lack of sexual experience does not interfere with desire: “so much so that some types of asexuals can have sex occasionally, not routinely. Others can try sex and not feel attracted by the experience”, he concludes.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
