What it doesn’t mean, is that those who identify as such are celibate monks living on a mountain top it’s not a pledge of abstinence, and it’s not a choice, either. While being asexual in and of itself is not a disorder when it causes someone distress, mental health experts view it in the context of a disorder. “Some are one hundred percent without sexual attraction some feel it weakly or very occasionally,” she says.īecause it’s not black and white and can shift over time, asexuality is recognized by researchers as an orientation that’s often misunderstood-despite being classified in the DSM-5 as a disorder. What’s key, however, is that asexuality exists on a spectrum. “Asexuality (ace for short) refers to the absence of sexual attraction to others,” says Margaret Nichols, PhD, president of Nichols Counseling and Psychotherapy in New Jersey and founder/president emeritus of the Institute for Personal Growth. Sexual attraction and desire can be highly subjective and intimacy can take a variety of forms. But just like a deck of playing cards, the rules can vary depending on the game. Insider fact: Asexuality is also known as Ace for short. Jump to: How to Know If You're Asexual The Spectrum of Asexuality Causes of Asexuality Arousal and Attraction Talking to Children and Teens FAQs Helpful Resources
