Demisexuality is a term used to describe individuals who experience sexual attraction only after forming a deep emotional connection with someone.

It differs from other sexual orientations because it does not solely depend on physical attraction, but rather on a strong emotional bond. In this beginner’s guide, we will explore this concept in depth, covering its definition, characteristics, and how demisexual people can navigate relationships and society.

What Is Demisexuality?

Demisexuality is a sexual orientation that falls under the asexual spectrum. While asexual individuals experience little or no sexual attraction, demisexual people only feel sexual attraction if they have established an emotional bond with someone.

This emotional bond, often referred to as “emotional attraction,” is crucial for demisexual people to feel any form of sexual attraction. This is what sets demisexuality apart from other sexual orientations – it’s not based on physical attraction alone.

Characteristics of Demisexuality

Demisexuality is characterized by the following features:.

Sexual attraction only occurs after a strong emotional bond is formed with someone.
Demisexual people are not sexually attracted to strangers or acquaintances they don’t have a strong emotional connection with.
They may struggle with casual dating, hookup culture, and one-night stands.
They prioritize emotional connection over physical attraction in their relationships.
They may view sex as a way to express intimacy and emotional connection rather than just physical pleasure.
Demisexual people may find it challenging to describe their sexual orientation to others or express their boundaries in romantic settings.

How to Know if You Are Demisexual?

If you’re unsure whether you’re demisexual, here are some questions to ask yourself:.

Do you only experience sexual attraction after forming an emotional bond with someone?
Have you found it difficult to feel sexually attracted to someone you don’t have a strong emotional connection with?
Do you prefer deep conversations, emotional intimacy, and building a relationship before engaging in sexual activity?
Do you feel indifferent to sex or view it as less important than establishing an emotional bond with someone?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you may be demisexual.

Navigating Relationships as a Demisexual Person

Since demisexual people prioritize emotional connection in their relationships, here are some ways they can navigate romantic and sexual situations:.

Be upfront about your sexual orientation with your partner and communicate your needs openly.
Take your time to get to know your partner before engaging in sexual activity.
Try to build emotional intimacy through deep conversations and shared experiences.
Avoid settling for a relationship or sexual encounter that doesn’t fulfill your emotional needs.
Seek out partners who respect and understand your boundaries.
Don’t feel pressured to conform to societal norms or expectations around sex and relationships

Demisexuality vs. Other Sexual Orientations

While demisexuality falls under the asexual spectrum, it’s important to understand how it differs from other sexual orientations. Here are some examples of these differences:.

Straight people experience sexual attraction towards the opposite gender.
Gay people experience sexual attraction towards the same gender.
Bisexual people experience sexual attraction towards both genders.
Asexual people experience little to no sexual attraction.
Demisexual people experience sexual attraction only after forming an emotional connection with someone.

Myths and Misconceptions About Demisexuality

As with any sexual orientation, myths and misconceptions can arise surrounding demisexuality. Here are some of the most common ones:.

Myth: Demisexual people are “prudes” or “frigid.”
Misconception: Demisexual people can only feel sexual attraction towards one person.
Myth: Demisexuality is a “new” or “made-up” sexual orientation.
Misconception: Demisexual people don’t feel any physical attraction.
Myth: Demisexual people don’t have sex or enjoy sexual activity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, demisexuality is a valid and real sexual orientation where individuals only feel sexual attraction after forming a deep emotional connection with someone.

It’s crucial to understand the characteristics, challenges, and misconceptions surrounding it to create a more inclusive and understanding society. For demisexual people, it’s essential to prioritize emotional connection and communicate openly with partners to build fulfilling relationships.