Asexuality has always been a misunderstood and misrepresented sexual orientation in society. Since most are unfamiliar with and uncovered about asexuality, it is surrounded by harmful myths and misconceptions. The perpetuation of these myths has led to discrimination and contributed to the stigmatization against asexual individuals, possibly leaving them withdrawn and misunderstood. However, if we educate ourselves about asexuality and decode some of the harmful myths that surround it, we can be more inclusive and understanding. This paper discusses five facts about asexuality that help dispel some of these harmful myths.
1. Asexuality is a valid sexual orientation
One of the most harmful myths about asexuality is that it is not a real sexual orientation. This misconception stems from the belief that everyone experiences sexual attraction and that not experiencing it is abnormal. However, asexuality is a valid sexual orientation, just like heterosexuality, homosexuality, and bisexuality. Asexual individuals do not experience sexual attraction towards anyone, and that is a valid and normal way to experience sexuality.
The belief that asexuality is not a valid sexual orientation can lead to asexual individuals feeling invalidated, isolated, and marginalized. This can also lead to a lack of representation and understanding, resulting in asexual individuals feeling invisible and overlooked in society. By recognizing asexuality as a valid sexual orientation, we can help to create a more inclusive and accepting society that acknowledges and respects the diversity of sexual experiences and identities.
2. Asexuality is not a choice
Another harmful myth about asexuality is that it is a choice or a phase that a person goes through. This harmful myth suggests that asexual individuals are just going through a phase and will eventually ‘grow out of it’ and become sexually active. However, asexuality is not a choice; it is a natural and inherent part of a person’s identity. Just like how heterosexual individuals do not choose to be attracted to the opposite gender, asexual individuals do not choose to not experience sexual attraction.
The belief that asexuality is a choice can lead to asexual individuals feeling pressured to conform to societal norms and expectations surrounding sexuality. This can result in asexual individuals feeling like they have to hide their identity or pretend to be something they are not in order to fit in. By recognizing that asexuality is not a choice, we can help to create a more accepting and understanding society that allows asexual individuals to be their authentic selves.
3. Asexual individuals can still experience romantic attraction
Another common myth about asexuality is that asexual individuals do not experience any form of attraction towards others. However, this is not true. Asexuality only refers to the lack of sexual attraction; it does not mean that asexual individuals do not experience romantic attraction. Asexual individuals can still form deep and meaningful romantic relationships with others, and their romantic orientation may vary, just like any other individual.
4. Asexuality is not a result of trauma or mental illness
One of the most pervasive myths about asexuality is that it is a result of past trauma or a mental illness. This myth suggests that asexual individuals are “broken” and need to be “fixed.” However, this is a harmful stereotype that has no basis in reality. Asexuality is a sexual orientation, not a disorder or a result of trauma.
According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, there is no evidence to suggest that asexuality is linked to trauma or mental illness. The study found that asexual individuals reported similar levels of mental health and well-being as individuals of other sexual orientations. Furthermore, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that asexuality can be “cured” or “fixed.” This myth stems from the belief that all people should experience sexual attraction and that a lack of sexual attraction is abnormal. However, asexuality is a natural variation in human sexuality, and it is just as valid as any other sexual orientation.
5. Asexual individuals can still have fulfilling lives and relationships
One of the most harmful myths about asexuality is that asexual individuals cannot have fulfilling lives or relationships. This myth suggests that asexual individuals are missing out on a crucial aspect of life and that they cannot have meaningful connections with others. However, this is far from the truth. Asexual individuals can have fulfilling lives and form deep and meaningful relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. They can experience love, intimacy, and companionship just like any other individual.
In summary, asexuality is a valid and normal sexual orientation, usually misunderstood and misrepresented. Knowing and accepting these five facts about asexuality can help in debunking some of the harmful myths surrounding this sexual orientation so that we live in an inclusive and more understanding society. One of the most important ways to break some barriers of stigma and discrimination against asexual people is education: both learning and teaching others about asexuality. We need to acknowledge and accept asexuality as a valid and diversified part of human sexuality.
