1
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Liang Z, Chen Y. An Intersectional Exploration of Outness, Encountered Discrimination and Violence, and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury among Asexual Youth across Gender Identities. J Youth Adolesc 2024:10.1007/s10964-024-01999-4. [PMID: 38739331 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-024-01999-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Current research on asexual youth is limited, especially in understanding the impact of their outness and the intersection of sexual orientation with gender minority identities. This study investigates the influence of outness on experiences of harassment, discrimination, violence, and the risk of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among asexual youth, with a focus on those with transgender and non-binary identities. Data for this study were obtained from the 2021 Ace Community Survey, an international online survey designed to assess the needs and health status of the Ace community, targeting respondents aged 13 and older. The analysis involved a subsample of 5574 respondents aged 13 to 24 (mean age = 19.28), including 2361 cisgender (mean age = 19.65), 1,195 transgender (mean age = 18.80), and 2,018 non-binary individuals (mean age = 19.13). The results revealed that experienceds of sexual violence, verbal aggression, and physical harassment and bullying not only correlated with but also completely mediated the relationship between outness and NSSI. Asexual transgender youth experienced heightened levels of discrimination and NSSI but demonstrated notable resilience against the negative effects of identity disclosure, highlighting complex dynamics of vulnerability and protection within these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zurong Liang
- Department of Sociology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yutian Chen
- Department of Sociology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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2
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Nimbi FM, Appia C, Tanzilli A, Giovanardi G, Lingiardi V. Deepening Sexual Desire and Erotic Fantasies Research in the ACE Spectrum: Comparing the Experiences of Asexual, Demisexual, Gray-Asexual, and Questioning People. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1031-1045. [PMID: 38212438 PMCID: PMC10920473 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02784-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Over the past 30 years, an increasing number of people have identified within the asexual (ACE) spectrum recognizing an absence/low/situational sexual attraction to individuals of any gender. The current study aims to deepen the knowledge of sexual desire, erotic fantasies, and related emotions within the ACE spectrum. A total of 1072 Italian volunteers were recruited to take part to the present study via social media. Data were collected from October 2021 to January 2022 using the Sexual Desire and Erotic Fantasies questionnaire and the Sexual Desire Inventory-2. Participants were divided into four groups: asexual, demisexual, gray-asexual, and questioning. Focusing on sexual desire, asexual people reported significantly lower scores than the other groups in all the dimensions except for "negative feelings to sexual desire," while demisexual participants showed the higher scores in all the domains except for "negative feelings to sexual desire." The questioning group reported the highest scores in the "negative feelings toward sexual desire" compared to the asexual and demisexual ones. The asexual group reported significantly lower scores than the other groups in fantasies frequency, fantasies importance, negative emotions, and sharing and experiencing. The demisexual group showed higher frequency of romantic fantasies than the asexual and gray-asexual ones. The results showed some specific patterns of desire and fantasies among the asexual, gray-asexual, demisexual, and questioning groups. These data may provide relevant material to clinicians working with asexual patients who need greater awareness about the diversity and heterogeneity of the sexual experience within the ACE spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Maria Nimbi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Degli Apuli 1, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Caterina Appia
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Degli Apuli 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Tanzilli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Degli Apuli 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Giovanardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Degli Apuli 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Degli Apuli 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
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3
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Zivony A, Reggev N. Beliefs About the Inevitability of Sexual Attraction Predict Stereotypes About Asexuality. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023:10.1007/s10508-023-02616-4. [PMID: 37212956 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02616-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Similar to other sexual minorities, asexual individuals often face prejudice and stereotyping. However, the source of these attitudes and beliefs is not well understood. We hypothesized that asexual stereotypes stem from the belief that sexual attraction is an inevitable part of human development. This attraction inevitability assumption can lead to the deduction that people who identify as asexual do so because they are going through a transitory stage or excusing socially avoidant tendencies. To test this stereotype deduction account, we examined whether specific asexual stereotypes (immaturity and non-sociality) were associated with adherence to the attraction inevitability assumption. Heterosexual participants (N = 322; 201 women, 114 men; mean age 34.6 yrs.) from the UK and the US read vignettes describing a target character that was either asexual or heterosexual. People who assumed that attraction is inevitable were more likely to evaluate asexual targets (but not heterosexual targets) as immature and non-social. The impact of the sexual inevitability assumption was present even when social dominance orientation, an attitude closely related to negativity toward all sexual minorities, was accounted for. Participants who adhered to the attraction inevitability assumption also showed a reduced inclination to befriend asexual individuals. These findings suggest that generalized negativity toward sexual minorities does not fully explain stereotypes and prejudice against asexual people. Instead, the current study highlights how perceived deviation from the shared understanding of sexuality uniquely contributes to anti-asexual bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alon Zivony
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck College, University of London, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK.
| | - Niv Reggev
- Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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4
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Margolin L. Why is absent/low sexual desire a mental disorder (except when patients identify as asexual)? PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2023.2193575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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5
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Feinstein BA, Rentería R. Where Is the Line Between Being In versus Out of the Closet? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023:10.1007/s10508-023-02570-1. [PMID: 36856959 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02570-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA.
| | - Roberto Rentería
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
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6
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Rye BJ, Goldszmidt R. Do Attitude Functions and Perceiver Demographics Predict Attitudes Toward Asexuality? PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2023.2185534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- B. J. Rye
- Department of Psychology, St. Jerome’s University at the University of Waterloo
| | - Rebecca Goldszmidt
- Department of Psychology, St. Jerome’s University at the University of Waterloo
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Masullo G, Coppola M. Potential and limitations of digital ethnographic research: A case study on a web community. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2023; 7:1092181. [PMID: 36687011 PMCID: PMC9846540 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2022.1092181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This work aims at transposing ethnographic research into digital contexts to probe its potential and limitations in a specific field of study: that of sexuality, particularly suited to ethnographic exploration. We chose as our case study a web community of Italian asexual people. As we shall see, this allowed us to simultaneously explore both the various techniques called into play in digital ethnography and the digital as a specific sphere within which sexuality takes on a very peculiar meaning. Digital sociality is paramount for the definition of imaginaries, meanings, and practices that could not be explored elsewhere. This is due to the implicit characteristics of the population studied, which does not find corresponding physical spaces of aggregation. METHODS The paper will present the research design using this specific case study to address some of the typical dilemmas that researchers face when following the digital ethnographic approach and will explore the research results as an example of the kind of analysis available with the information and data collected through this method. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The conclusions will attempt to briefly outline the shortfalls and advantages of this method, considering its application to this specific field of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Masullo
- Department of Human Sciences, Philosophy and Education, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Marianna Coppola
- Department of Political and Communication Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
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8
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Lamarche VM, Tan K, Stanton SCE, Carswell KL. Editorial: Not so WEIRD after all? Relationship science in diverse samples and contexts. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1162324. [PMID: 36960002 PMCID: PMC10028243 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1162324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica M. Lamarche
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Veronica M. Lamarche
| | - Kenneth Tan
- School of Social Sciences, Singapore Management University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sarah C. E. Stanton
- School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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9
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Queering Relationships: Exploring Phenomena of Asexual Identified Persons in Relationships. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-022-09650-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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10
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Zheng L, Su Y. Sexual Minority Identity and Mental Health Among Individuals on the Asexuality Spectrum in China: A Longitudinal Study. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:3627-3636. [PMID: 35994176 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02395-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the association between sexual minority identity and mental health among Chinese asexual individuals. Data were collected in two waves at 12-months intervals, and 156 participants (27 male and 129 female) completed measures of the Asexuality Identification Scale (AIS) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales at Times 1 and 2. The adjusted version of the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale was assessed at Time 1. Participants self-reported as asexual/gray-sexual and pansexual/demi-sexual, and those having an AIS ≥ 40 were classified as being on the asexuality spectrum. Compared with a control sample of lesbian and gay individuals (521 gay and 216 lesbian individuals), asexual individuals reported poorer mental health. Self-reported non-asexual individuals on the asexuality spectrum had a negative minority identity and poorer mental health than self-reported asexual individuals. Participants who changed their asexual orientation scored higher on internalized asexuality-phobia and identity uncertainty than participants maintaining an asexual orientation. At Time 1, acceptance concern, difficult process, and identity uncertainty were associated with poorer mental health. A difficult process was longitudinally associated with poorer mental health. The findings indicate that minority stress was partially related to asexual people's mental health and, for this reason, more asexuality-specific factors should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Yanchen Su
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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11
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Brozowski A, Connor-Kuntz H, Lewis S, Sinha S, Oh J, Weidmann R, Weaver JR, Chopik WJ. A test of the investment model among asexual individuals: The moderating role of attachment orientation. Front Psychol 2022; 13:912978. [PMID: 36186308 PMCID: PMC9523605 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.912978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Many asexual individuals are in long-term satisfying romantic relationships. However, the contributors to relational commitment among asexual individuals have received little attention. How do investment model characteristics and attachment orientations predict relationship commitment among asexual individuals? Our study looked at a sample of 485 self-identified asexual individuals currently in a romantic relationship (Mage = 25.61, SD = 6.24; MRelationshipLength = 4.42 years, SD = 4.74). Individuals reported on Investment Model characteristics (i.e., their relationship satisfaction, investment, alternatives, and commitment) and their attachment orientations. Satisfaction, investment, and fewer alternatives were associated with greater commitment. Attachment orientations only occasionally moderated the results: for people low in anxiety, satisfaction and investment were more strongly related to commitment compared to people high in anxiety. The current study provided an extension of the Investment Model to describe romantic relationships among asexual individuals.
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12
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Kelleher S, Murphy M. Asexual identity development and internalisation: a thematic analysis. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2022.2091127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sinéad Kelleher
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Mike Murphy
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Ireland
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13
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Clark AN, Zimmerman C. Concordance Between Romantic Orientations and Sexual Attitudes: Comparing Allosexual and Asexual Adults. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2147-2157. [PMID: 35380311 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02194-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Sexual and romantic orientations are often considered one and the same, and attitudes about engaging in sexual behavior are assumed to be predominantly positive. The current study explored the concordance between sexual and romantic orientations among allosexual and asexual adults as well as the frequency with which they identify as having a sex-positive, sex-neutral, or sex-averse attitude. As expected, allosexual adults were largely sex-positive (82%) and almost all (89%) had a romantic orientation that matched their sexual orientation. In contrast, we found that only 37% of asexual adults had concordant sexual and romantic orientations and that most asexual adults self-identify as either sex-neutral (41%) or sex-averse (54%). Further, we used a semantic differential task to assess sexual intimacy attitudes and how they varied for adults based on sexual attitude. Asexual adults, regardless of sexual attitude, had less positive attitudes overall than allosexual adults. Interestingly, aromantic asexual adults did not have more negative attitudes about sexual intimacy than romantic asexual participants. Although asexual adults held less positive attitudes about sex than allosexual adults, there was considerable heterogeneity within our asexual sample. The current study provides further insight into the concordance between romantic and sexual orientation, and the associations among sexual and intimacy attitudes for both allosexual and asexual adults. These findings will have implications for future research on how asexual adults navigate romantic relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa N Clark
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
| | - Corinne Zimmerman
- Department of Psychology, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, USA
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14
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Guz S, Hecht HK, Kattari SK, Gross EB, Ross E. A Scoping Review of Empirical Asexuality Research in Social Science Literature. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2135-2145. [PMID: 35604513 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02307-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Research on asexuality as a part of the experience of human sexuality has increased over the last two decades. However, there has not yet been a systematic review of the extant literature on asexuality. This paper aims to provide a systematic scoping review of literature on asexuality with articles published in 2004 through August 2021. After a systematic search procedure, 48 studies were included. A codebook was developed to extract broad information about the literature on asexuality, including sampling techniques, research participant sociodemographics, and conceptualization of asexuality. Results of the review indicate that the research is currently split between qualitative and quantitative methods. The literature primarily relied on convenience sampling within asexual online communities. The primary online community was Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN), which may have contributed to the majority of participants being White, presumptively cisgender, women between the ages of 20-30. Analysis of the overall literature scope demonstrates no support for asexuality as a medical condition (i.e., a disorder requiring treatment) and instead supports the need to recognize asexuality as a complex identity and sexual orientation. Implications for research are discussed, such as the need for additional research on the topic of human sexuality that includes asexuality as a sexual orientation as well as the need for more intersectional research within the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Guz
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, University of Chicago, 969 E. 60th St., Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Hillary K Hecht
- UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Shanna K Kattari
- School of Social Work & Women's and Gender Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - E B Gross
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Emily Ross
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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15
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Kelleher S, Murphy M, Su X. Asexual identity development and internalisation: a scoping review of quantitative and qualitative evidence. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2022.2057867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sinéad Kelleher
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Ireland
| | - Mike Murphy
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Ireland
| | - Xin Su
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Ireland
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16
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Caba AE, Mallory AB, Simon KA, Rathus T, Watson RJ. Complex Outness Patterns Among Sexual Minority Youth: A Latent Class Analysis. J Youth Adolesc 2022; 51:746-765. [PMID: 35150376 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-022-01580-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Prior scholarship has documented health-relevant consequences of sexual minority youth (SMY) sexual identity disclosure (i.e., "outness"), yet most of the extant work focuses on one social context at a time and/or measures outness as dichotomous: out or not out. However, SMY are out in some contexts (e.g., family, friends) and not in others, and to varying degrees (e.g., to some friends, but not to all). Using a national sample of 8884 SMY ages 13-17 (45% cisgender female, 67% White, 38% gay/lesbian and 34% bisexual, and 36% from the U.S. South), this study used latent class analysis to identify complex patterns of outness among SMY, as well differences in class membership by demographics, depression, family rejection, and bullying. The results indicated six distinct classes: out to all but teachers (n = 1033), out to siblings and peers (n = 1808), out to siblings and LGBTQ peers (n = 1707), out to LGBTQ peers (n = 1376), mostly not out (n = 1653), and very much not out (n = 1307). The findings reveal significant differences in class membership by age, sexual identity, gender identity, race and ethnicity, geography, and well-being outcomes. Moreover, these findings underscore the complex role of outness across social contexts in shaping health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia E Caba
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Road, U-1058, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
| | - Allen B Mallory
- College of Education & Human Ecology Department of Human Sciences Program of Human Development & Family Sciences Campbell Hall 130C, 1787 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Kay A Simon
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Road, U-1058, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Taylor Rathus
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Road, U-1058, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Road, U-1058, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
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17
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Kelleher S, Murphy M. The identity development and internalization of asexual orientation in women: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2022.2031960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sinéad Kelleher
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Mike Murphy
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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18
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McInroy LB, Beaujolais B, Craig SL, Eaton AD. The Self-Identification, LGBTQ+ Identity Development, and Attraction and Behavior of Asexual Youth: Potential Implications for Sexual Health and Internet-Based Service Provision. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:3853-3863. [PMID: 34136992 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02064-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
While often included in the spectrum of sexual minority identities, asexuality receives comparatively little attention. Awareness and understanding remains limited, and knowledge has been generated primarily from adult populations. This paper employs a sample of 711 self-identified asexual youth (aged 14-24, M = 17.43 years) who identified as members of the LGBTQ+ community to consider the implications of a number of different areas for service provision. Two-thirds (66.8%) of participants identified as gender minorities within the spectrum of transgender and non-binary identities. Findings include aspects of participants' LGBTQ+ developmental processes, including that only 14.3% had disclosed their LGBTQ+ status to everyone in their lives. However, just 2.4% had disclosed to no one. Their attraction and sexual activity were also explored, with 27.1% having never experienced any kind of romantic or sexual attraction and 20.6% having ever been sexually active. Findings regarding participants' accessing of LGBTQ+ health information and engagement in a range of offline and online LGBTQ+ community activities are also provided. Participants acquired more health information online than offline-including sexual health information. Recommendations for service provision, particularly implications for sexual health and Internet-based services, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren B McInroy
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | | | - Shelley L Craig
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew D Eaton
- Faculty of Social Work - Saskatoon Campus, University of Regina, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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19
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Simon KA, Hawthorne HM, Clark AN, Renley BM, Farr RH, Eaton LA, Watson RJ. Contextualizing the Well-being of Asexual Youth: Evidence of Differences in Family, Health, and School Outcomes. J Youth Adolesc 2021; 51:128-140. [PMID: 34550495 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-021-01500-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite increasing efforts to better understand sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY), asexual youth remain understudied. This study examines differences in health, family support, and school safety among asexual youth (n = 938) from a national study of SGMY (N = 17,112) ages 13-17. Compared to non-asexual youth, asexual youth were more likely to identify as transgender and report a disability, and less likely to identify as Black or Hispanic/Latino. Transgender (versus cisgender) asexual youth fared worse on most study outcomes. Cisgender asexual (versus cisgender non-asexual) youth fared worse on all study outcomes. Transgender asexual (versus transgender non-asexual) youth reported lower sexuality-related family support. These findings underscore the role of gender identity in understanding the experiences of asexual youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay A Simon
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
| | - Heath M Hawthorne
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Alyssa N Clark
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Benton M Renley
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Rachel H Farr
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Rd, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
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Vu K, Riggs DW, Due C. Exploring anti-asexual bias in a sample of Australian undergraduate psychology students. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2021.1956574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kym Vu
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Damien W. Riggs
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work Flinders University GPO Box 2100 Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Clemence Due
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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21
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Brown NB, Peragine D, VanderLaan DP, Kingstone A, Brotto LA. Cognitive processing of sexual cues in asexual individuals and heterosexual women with desire/arousal difficulties. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251074. [PMID: 33979379 PMCID: PMC8115827 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Asexuality is defined as a unique sexual orientation characterized by a lack of sexual attraction to others. This has been challenged, with some experts positing that it is better explained as a sexual dysfunction. Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SIAD) is characterized by absent/reduced sexual interest/arousal paired with personal distress, with two subtypes: acquired and lifelong. Research suggests that while asexuality and acquired SIAD are distinct entities, there may be overlap between asexuality and lifelong SIAD. Findings from studies using eye-tracking and implicit association tasks suggest that these methodologies might differentiate these groups on the basis of their neural mechanisms. However, no study has compared their cognitive processing of sexual cues, and the literature on lifelong SIAD is minimal. The current study tested differences in the cognitive processing of sexual cues between asexual individuals and women with SIAD (lifelong and acquired). Forty-two asexual individuals and 25 heterosexual women with SIAD (16: acquired; 9: lifelong) completed three study components: a visual attention task, a Single Category-Implicit Association Task, and the sex semantic differential. ANOVAs examined group differences in: 1) visual attention to erotic cues, 2) implicit appraisals of sexual words, and 3) explicit appraisals of sex. Women with SIAD displayed a controlled attention preference for erotic images and areas of sexual contact, with longer dwell times to these areas relative to asexual individuals, who did not gaze preferentially at erotic cues. For implicit appraisals, all groups demonstrated negative—neutral implicit associations with sexual words. For explicit appraisals, women with acquired SIAD reported more positive evaluations of sex relative to asexual individuals and women with lifelong SIAD. This project sheds light on key differences between asexuality and low desire, and has implications for best clinical practice guidelines for the assessment of lifelong SIAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie B. Brown
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Diana Peragine
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
| | - Doug P. VanderLaan
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alan Kingstone
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lori A. Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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22
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Timmins L, Rimes KA, Rahman Q. Is Being Queer Gay? Sexual Attraction Patterns, Minority Stressors, and Psychological Distress in Non-Traditional Categories of Sexual Orientation. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2021; 58:599-611. [PMID: 33307829 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2020.1849527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study examined characteristics of cisgender people who use non-traditional sexual orientation labels and investigated minority stress in these groups. Pansexual (n = 160), queer (n = 80), and asexual (n = 98) participants were compared with heterosexual (n = 1,021), bisexual (n = 1,518), and lesbian/gay (n = 2,730) individuals recruited from a cross-sectional survey. Participants were compared on sexual attraction, age, gender and childhood gender nonconformity. Hierarchical regression models with psychological distress as the dependent variable and outness, prejudice events, expectations of rejection, self-stigma, and rumination as independent variables were then tested in pansexual, queer, and asexual individuals. Sexual attraction, age, gender and recalled childhood gender nonconformity were significant predictors of group identity. Pansexual individuals were not significantly distinct from bisexual individuals in sexual attraction. Queer individuals fell between bisexual and lesbian/gay individuals in sexual attraction scores. Prejudice events and rumination were significantly associated with distress in all three non-traditional groups. Rumination scores attenuated the relationship between prejudice events and distress in all groups. These findings help characterize pansexual, asexual and queer individuals and suggest indirect effects of prejudice events on distress via rumination represent a worthy avenue for future minority stress research in these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liadh Timmins
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
- Department of Psychology, King's College London
| | | | - Qazi Rahman
- Department of Psychology, King's College London
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23
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Rothblum ED, Krueger EA, Kittle KR, Meyer IH. Asexual and Non-Asexual Respondents from a U.S. Population-Based Study of Sexual Minorities. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:757-767. [PMID: 31214906 PMCID: PMC7059692 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01485-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Using a U.S. population-based sample of lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB) and other sexual minority (e.g., queer-identified) people, we compared those who identified as asexual (n = 19; 1.66%) and those who were non-asexual (n = 1504; 98.34%). Compared to non-asexual respondents, asexual respondents were more likely to be women or gender non-binary and belong to a younger (ages 18-27) cohort. Asexual individuals were also less likely to have had sex in the past 5 years, compared to non-asexual men, women, and gender non-binary participants, and also reported lower levels of sexual attraction to cisgender men and women than non-asexual women and men, respectively. However, asexual participants did not differ from non-asexual participants in being in an intimate relationship. Asexual respondents felt more stigma than non-asexual men and women, and asexuals reported more everyday discrimination than did non-asexual men. Asexual and non-asexual respondents did not differ in their sense of connectedness to the LGB community. Asexual and non-asexual respondents were as likely to be out to all family, all friends, and all co-workers, but fewer asexual participants were out to all healthcare providers than non-asexual men. The two groups were similar in general well-being, life satisfaction, and social support. In conclusion, asexual identity is an infrequent but unique identity, and one that has the potential to expand the concept of queer identity as well as to destabilize the foregrounding of sexual behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther D Rothblum
- Women's Studies Department, San Diego State University, MC 6030, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA, 92182, USA.
| | - Evan A Krueger
- The Williams Institute, School of Law, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Krystal R Kittle
- The Williams Institute, School of Law, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ilan H Meyer
- The Williams Institute, School of Law, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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24
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Winter-Gray T, Hayfield N. ‘Can I be a kinky ace?’: How asexual people negotiate their experiences of kinks and fetishes. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2019.1679866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thom Winter-Gray
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, UK
| | - Nikki Hayfield
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Frenchay Campus, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, UK
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25
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Portillo W, Paredes RG. Motivational Drive in Non-copulating and Socially Monogamous Mammals. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:238. [PMID: 31636551 PMCID: PMC6787552 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Motivational drives guide behaviors in animals of different species, including humans. Some of these motivations, like looking for food and water, are crucial for the survival of the individual and hence for the preservation of the species. But there is at least another motivation that is also important for the survival of the species but not for the survival of the individual. Undoubtedly, sexual motivation is important for individuals to find a mate and reproduce, thus ensuring the survival of the species. In species with sexual reproduction, when males find a female in the appropriate hormonal conditions, they will display sexual behavior. However, some healthy males do not mate when they have access to a sexually receptive female, even though they are repeatedly tested. These non-copulating (NC) individuals have been reported in murine, cricetid and ungulates. In humans this sexual orientation is denominated asexuality. Asexual individuals are physically and emotionally healthy men and women without desire for sexual intercourse. Different species have developed a variety of strategies to find a mate and reproduce. Most species of mammals are polygamous; they mate with one or several partners at the same time, as occur in rats, or they can reproduce with different conspecifics throughout their life span. There are also monogamous species that only mate with one partner. One of the most studied socially monogamous species is the Prairie vole. In this species mating or cohabitation for long periods induces the formation of a long-lasting pair bond. Both males and females share the nest, show a preference for their sexual partner, display aggression to other males and females and display parental behavior towards their pups. This broad spectrum of reproductive strategies demonstrates the biological variability of sexual motivation and points out the importance of understanding the neurobiological basis of sexual motivational drives in different species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Portillo
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Raúl G Paredes
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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26
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Hammack PL, Frost DM, Hughes SD. Queer Intimacies: A New Paradigm for the Study of Relationship Diversity. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:556-592. [PMID: 30362833 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1531281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Recognition of sexual and gender diversity in the 21st century challenges normative assumptions of intimacy that privilege heterosexual monogamy and the biological family unit, presume binary cisgender identities, essentialize binary sexual identities, and view sexual or romantic desire as necessary. We propose a queer paradigm to study relationship diversity grounded in seven axioms: intimacy may occur (1) within relationships featuring any combination of cisgender, transgender, or nonbinary identities; (2) with people of multiple gender identities across the life course; (3) in multiple relationships simultaneously with consent; (4) within relationships characterized by consensual asymmetry, power exchange, or role-play; (5) in the absence or limited experience of sexual or romantic desire; (6) in the context of a chosen rather than biological family; and (7) in other possible forms yet unknown. We review research on queer relational forms, including same-sex relationships; relationships in which one or more partners identify as transgender, gender nonbinary, bisexual, pansexual, sexually fluid, "mostly" straight, asexual, or aromantic; polyamory and other forms of consensual nonmonogamy; kink/fetish relationships; and chosen families. We argue that a queer paradigm shifts the dominant scientific conception of relationships away from the confines of normativity toward an embrace of diversity, fluidity, and possibility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David M Frost
- b Department of Social Science, University College London
| | - Sam D Hughes
- a Department of Psychology , University of California, Santa Cruz
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27
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Bulmer M, Izuma K. Implicit and Explicit Attitudes Toward Sex and Romance in Asexuals. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2018; 55:962-974. [PMID: 28362218 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2017.1303438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the recent surge of interest in sexuality, asexuality has remained relatively underresearched. Distinct from abstinence or chastity, asexuality refers to a lack of sexual attraction toward others. Past research suggests asexuals have negative attitudes toward sex, though no research has examined implicit attitudes. While preliminary evidence suggests that many asexuals are interested in engaging in romantic relationships, these attitudes have yet to be examined thoroughly, implicitly, or compared with a control group. This study investigated explicit and implicit attitudes toward sex and romance in a group of asexuals (N = 18, age M = 21.11) and a group of controls (N = 27, age M = 21.81), using the Asexuality Identification Scale (AIS), the Triangular Love Scale (TLS), semantic differentials, an Implicit Association Task (IAT), and two Single Category IATs. It was found that asexuals exhibited more negative explicit and implicit attitudes toward sex, as well as more negative explicit attitudes toward romance, relative to controls. There was no significant difference between groups on implicit romantic attitudes. Moreover, aromantic asexuals demonstrated significantly more negative explicit attitudes toward romance than romantic asexuals, though there was no significant difference between groups on implicit measures. Explanations and implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keise Izuma
- a Department of Psychology , University of York
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28
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Parent MC, Ferriter KP. The Co-Occurrence of Asexuality and Self-Reported Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnosis and Sexual Trauma Within the Past 12 Months Among U.S. College Students. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:1277-1282. [PMID: 29464451 PMCID: PMC10388689 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1171-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of individuals identify as asexual. It is important to understand the relationship between a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder or a history of sexual trauma co-occurs with asexual identity. We aimed to assess whether identification as asexual was associated with greater likelihood for self-reported PTSD diagnosis and history of sexual trauma within the past 12 months. Secondary data analysis was undertaken of a cross-sectional survey of 33,385 U.S. college students (12,148 male, 21,237 female), including 228 self-identified asexual individuals (31 male, 197 female), who completed the 2015-2016 Healthy Minds Study. Measures included assessment of self-report of prior professional diagnosis of PTSD and self-report of prior sexual trauma in the past year. Among non-asexual participants, 1.9% self-reported a diagnosis of PTSD and 2.4% reported a history of sexual trauma in the past 12 months. Among the group identified as asexual, 6.6% self-reported a diagnosis of PTSD and 3.5% reported a history of sexual assault in the past 12 months. Individuals who identified as asexual were more likely to report a diagnosis of PTSD (OR 4.44; 95% CI 2.32, 8.50) and sexual trauma within the past 12 months (OR 2.52; 95% CI 1.20, 5.27), compared to non-asexual individuals. These differences persisted after including sex of the participants in the model, and the interaction between asexual identification and sex was not significant in either case. Asexual identity was associated with greater likelihood of reported PTSD diagnosis and reported sexual trauma within the past 12 months. Implications for future research on asexuality are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike C Parent
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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29
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Greaves LM, Barlow FK, Huang Y, Stronge S, Fraser G, Sibley CG. Asexual Identity in a New Zealand National Sample: Demographics, Well-Being, and Health. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:2417-2427. [PMID: 28361243 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-0977-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Academic interest in asexuality has increased in recent years; however, there is yet to be a national probability study exploring the correlates of self-identifying as asexual. Here, we utilized data from the 2014/15 New Zealand Attitudes and Values Study. Past research has typically used attraction-based measures; however, we asked participants to describe their sexual orientation using a self-generated, open-ended item, and 0.4% (n = 44) self-identified as asexual. We then compared self-identified asexual participants with a heterosexual reference group (n = 11,822) across a large number of demographic, psychological, and health variables. Relative to heterosexuals, self-identified asexual participants were (1) more likely to be women, and (2) substantially less likely to be cisgender, (3) in a serious romantic relationship, or (4) a parent. No deleterious mental or physical health effects were associated with asexuality when compared to heterosexuality. This study provides the first attempt at measuring self-identification as asexual in a national sample and highlights core similarities and differences between those who identify as asexual and heterosexual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara M Greaves
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Fiona Kate Barlow
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yanshu Huang
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Samantha Stronge
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Gloria Fraser
- School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Chris G Sibley
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
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30
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Jones C, Hayter M, Jomeen J. Understanding asexual identity as a means to facilitate culturally competent care: A systematic literature review. J Clin Nurs 2017; 26:3811-3831. [PMID: 28430404 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.13862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To provide a contemporary overview of asexuality and the implications this has for healthcare practice. BACKGROUND Individuals belonging to sexual minority groups face many barriers in accessing appropriate health care. The term "sexual minority group" is usually used to refer to lesbian women, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals. Anecdotal and research evidence suggests that those who identify as asexual have similar poor experiences. DESIGN Systematic review and qualitative analysis. METHODS This work uses a systematic review and qualitative analysis of the existing interview data from self-identified asexuals, to construct features of the asexual identity. The findings will help practitioners and health professionals develop an understanding of this poorly understood construct. Ultimately this work is aimed at facilitating culturally competent care in the context of asexuality. RESULTS Qualitative analysis produced three themes, which can be used, not only to frame asexuality in a positive and normalising way, but also to provide greater understanding of asexuality, "romantic differences coupled with sexual indifference," "validation through engagement with asexual communities" and "a diversity of subasexual identities." CONCLUSIONS Having some understanding of what it means to identify as asexual, and respecting the choices made by asexuals can markedly improve the experiences of those who embrace an asexual identity when engaging with health care. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Anecdotal evidence, taken from one of the largest asexual online forums, suggests that a number of self-identified asexuals choose not to disclose their identity to healthcare professionals through fear of their asexual status being pathologised, problematised or judged. Given that asexuality is a poorly understood concept, this may be due to lack of understanding on behalf of healthcare providers. The review provides health professionals and practitioners working in clinical settings with some insights of the features of an asexual identity to facilitate culturally competent care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona Jones
- Faculty of Health and Social Care, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Mark Hayter
- Faculty of Health and Social Care, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Julie Jomeen
- Faculty of Health and Social Care, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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31
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Van Houdenhove E, Enzlin P, Gijs L. A Positive Approach Toward Asexuality: Some First Steps, But Still a Long Way to Go. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:647-651. [PMID: 28091869 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0921-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Van Houdenhove
- Department of Family Studies, Odisee University College, Brussels, 1030, Belgium.
| | - Paul Enzlin
- Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luk Gijs
- Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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32
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Gupta K. "And Now I'm Just Different, but There's Nothing Actually Wrong With Me": Asexual Marginalization and Resistance. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2017; 64:991-1013. [PMID: 27632813 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1236590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
This article explores the relationship between contemporary asexual lives and compulsory sexuality, or the privileging of sexuality and the marginalizing of nonsexuality. Drawing on 30 in-depth interviews, I identify four ways the asexually identified individuals in this study saw themselves as affected by compulsory sexuality: pathologization, isolation, unwanted sex and relationship conflict, and the denial of epistemic authority. I also identify five ways these asexually identified individuals disrupted compulsory sexuality: adopting a language of difference and a capacity to describe asexuality; deemphasizing the importance of sexuality in human life; developing new types of nonsexual relationships; constituting asexuality as a sexual orientation or identity; and engaging in community building and outreach. I argue that some of these practices offer only a limited disruption of compulsory sexuality, but some of these practices pose a radical challenge to sexual norms by calling into question the widespread assumption that sexuality is a necessary part of human flourishing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Gupta
- a Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies , Wake Forest University , Winston-Salem , North Carolina , USA
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