Asexuality: What It Is and Why It Matters

Abstract

In this review article, human asexuality, a relatively understudied phenomenon, is discussed. Specifically, definitions and conceptualizations of asexuality (e.g., is it a unique category of sexual orientation?), biological and historical contexts, identity issues, discrimination against asexual people relative to other minorities, origins, and variations, including gender differences, are reviewed. Whether asexuality should be construed as a disorder is also discussed. The study of asexuality allows for a better understanding of an underrecognized sexual minority but also affords a unique opportunity to examine and better understand human sexuality.

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank Kelsey Fallis and Katie Ross for their comments on a previous draft of this manuscript. I would also like to thank four anonymous reviewers for their suggestions.