ASEXUally: On Being an Ally to the Asexual Community

Abstract

The development of allies is crucial to the asexual population. The asexual community is among the most under- researched and poorly understood sexual minority populations. Through discussion of basic information on asexuality, the distinction between asexuality and a diagnosable disorder, and ways that other identities intersect with asexuality, this article offers a foundation and model for asexual ally development. Based on the information presented, recommendations for counselor and counselor educator allies who are working with asexual identified, or potentially asexual individuals, are presented. Suggestions for future research on asexuality are also explored.

KEYWORDS:

• ally
• ally development
• asexual
• asexual ally
• asexuality
• romantic orientation
• sexual continuum
• sexual orientation