The Acethetic Identity: Exploring Lived Experiences of Asexuality

Abstract

Asexuality can be defined as a lack of sexual attraction towards anyone or anything. The supposed omnipresence of sexual attraction as an important part of human experience makes asexuality an understudied facet of human sexuality and a relatively newer concept in public discourse. The focus of the present study was to examine the lived experiences of self-identified asexuals. A sample of six female participants was selected using purposive and convenience sampling. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview around intimacy, idea of relationships, psychological well- being, sexual behaviour, microaggressions faced and their concerns of being different, if any. The data gathered was analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The results highlight the experiences of being an asexual in a society that holds many misconceptions, their narratives about understanding asexuality and engaging in self-acceptance and reconceptualization of relationships. The implications of the study include de-stigmatization and bringing visibility to the group by bridging the gap between the asexual community and the LGBTQ+ community.