Name: 7 Things Asexual and Aromantic People Want You to Know
Uploaded: 2025-09-01T18:07:07.000Z
Duration: 4 min 9 s
Description: Thousands of YouTube videos with English-Chinese subtitles! Now you can learn to understand native speakers, expand your vocabulary, and improve your pronunciation...

Hi Psych2Goers, we're exploring two often misunderstood identities, asexuality and aromanticism.

There's more to attraction than just romance or sex, and these identities help us understand human attraction and relationships.

To start off, asexuality and aromanticism are of course valid orientations.

Asexuality is recognized as a valid sexual orientation characterized by little to no sexual attraction to others.

It's distinct from celibacy, which is a choice to abstain from sexual activity.

Research from the University of British Columbia confirms that asexuality is not a psychiatric condition or sexual disorder.

Similarly, aromanticism refers to experiencing little to no romantic attraction.

While research on aromanticism is still emerging, organizations like ARIA are compiling studies to better understand this identity.

Both asexuality and aromanticism exist on spectrums.

Demisexual, for example, is a micro-label under the asexual umbrella.

It describes someone who only experiences sexual attraction after forming a strong emotional bond.

These micro-labels help people describe their experiences more precisely.

A study comparing romantic and aromantic asexual individuals found diverse experiences and emphasized the importance of recognizing this spectrum.

It is not a result of trauma or dysfunction.

A common misconception is that asexuality or aromanticism stems from trauma or dysfunction.

However, studies indicate that in most cases, orientations are inherent aspects of an individual's identity.

For example, research has shown that asexual individuals often identify as such early in life, and this identity remains consistent over time.

Asexual or aromantic people still value deep connection.

Many build strong friendships, close family bonds, and meaningful relationships, just not always in the way society expects.

A Michigan State University study found that asexual relationships thrive on the same foundations as any other—trust, communication, and commitment.

At the end of the day, everyone's needs and connections are different.

Whether someone wants romance, friendship, or none of the above, their experience is valid.

Saying things like, oh, you just haven't met the right person can feel dismissive.

These comments suggest someone's identity is just a phase or a problem to fix, when in reality, it's a valid orientation that deserves respect.

Recognizing and respecting these orientations is crucial for fostering inclusive environments.

Media representation of asexual and aromantic individuals is limited.

A 2023 report highlighted that 39% of respondents wish to see more aromantic and or asexual characters in the media they consume.

Positive representation can lead to greater understanding and acceptance.

It's okay if you can't fully grasp what it means to be asexual or aromantic.

The key is to approach these identities with respect and an open mind.

Listening and validating people's experiences can make a significant difference.

Understanding asexuality and aromanticism enriches our comprehension of human diversity.

So let's continue to learn, respect, and support one another in our unique journeys.

Coming up next, how to support a loved one who's asexual or aromantic.