Demisexuality: Definition, Emotional Attraction, and Asexuality Spectrum

What is Demisexuality?

A demisexual person only experiences sexual attraction to someone after developing a strong emotional bond with that person. This is not a choice, but a sexual orientation where sexual attraction is conditioned by a deep emotional connection.

Key Points of Demisexuality

• Conditional attraction: Sexual attraction only manifests after a significant emotional bond has been established.

• Asexuality spectrum: Demisexuality is often considered part of the asexuality spectrum, as sexual attraction is not felt primarily or universally.

• Variety of relationships: Demisexual individuals can have heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, etc., relationships once the emotional bond is established.

• Importance of emotional connection: The development of a deep friendship, intellectual connection, or platonic love is often a precursor to any sexual attraction.

• Not a choice: Like any sexual orientation, demisexuality is not a choice and cannot be changed by will.

• Diverse experiences: The experience of demisexuality can vary considerably from person to person, with some needing more time or a more intense bond than others.

• Visibility and understanding: The recognition of demisexuality helps validate the experiences of those who do not feel immediate sexual attraction and contributes to a better understanding of the diversity of sexualities.