Social, Cultural, and Structural Factors Contributing to Erasure of Asexuality
This article will examine the various social, cultural, and structural factors that contribute to the erasure of asexuality and explore how recognizing asexual experiences could reshape LGBTQ+ discourse and policy. We will start with an overview of what it means to be asexual, followed by a discussion of why society often fails to acknowledge this identity.
We will look at some potential ways to address these issues and promote greater recognition for asexuals.
What is asexuality?
Asexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by a lack of sexual attraction towards others. It differs from celibacy, which is simply abstaining from sexual activity, and aromanticism, which refers to a lack of romantic attraction. Asexuals may still experience physical or emotional intimacy, but they do not desire sex. They can identify as heteroromantic, homoromantic, biromantic, panromantic, demiromantic, etc., depending on their romantic preferences.
Why are asexuals ignored or disbelieved?
One reason for the erasure of asexuality is that it challenges traditional understandings of sex and sexuality. Many people assume that everyone is attracted to others in some way, so the idea that someone could have no sexual desires seems strange or unnatural.
Many cultures value sex as integral to relationships and view it as essential for human development, health, and happiness. Asexuals who reject this assumption can be seen as deviant or maladaptive. This stigma contributes to a culture where asexual experiences go unrecognized and unacknowledged.
Another factor is that asexuals themselves may internalize this stigma and fear coming out about their identity. Some worry that they won't be believed, while others fear being judged or rejected by friends, family members, or potential partners. As a result, many choose to keep their asexuality private and struggle with feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Societal pressures favor monogamous relationships, often involving regular sex. These expectations can make it difficult for asexuals to find compatible partners who accept them as they are. As a result, they may feel forced to hide their true selves or deny their needs altogether.
How would recognizing asexuality reshape LGBTQ+ discourse and policy?
Recognition of asexuality could help promote greater inclusion and equality within the LGBTQ+ community. It could encourage more research on the topic and lead to better understanding of asexual experiences. It could also create space for asexual activism and advocacy, addressing issues like misconceptions and stereotypes, lack of representation in media, and limited services and resources.
Acknowledging asexuality could improve policies affecting sexual education, healthcare, and social services. Asexuals need access to accurate information and medical care tailored to their specific needs, rather than generic guidelines designed for "normal" people. They should have the right to define their own boundaries and set their own standards, without being forced into practices they don't want or understand. And they deserve support and validation for navigating complex emotional landscapes that don't necessarily involve physical intimacy.
Asexuals face unique challenges and experiences due to social, cultural, and structural factors contributing to their erasure. Recognizing their identity and needs could promote greater inclusivity and equity within the LGBTQ+ community and broader society.
What social, cultural, and structural factors contribute to the erasure of asexuality, and how can recognition of asexual experiences reshape LGBT discourse and policy?
Asexuality is an orientation that is defined as experiencing little or no sexual attraction towards people of any gender. Asexuals may still have romantic or platonic relationships but do not feel sexually attracted to their partners. A recent study found that between 0. 6% and 1. 2% of the population identifies as asexual (Bogaert, 2015).