Sexual orientation: Androsexuality, characteristics, indicators, and resources
In the vast spectrum of human sexuality, androsexuality stands as a unique identity, referring to an attraction to perceived masculinity, regardless of the individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. People who identify as androsexual may be attracted to males, men, or masculinity in various forms, such as sexual, aesthetic, emotional, or romantic attraction.
For those who find the term androsexual more applicable to them than other terms like heterosexual, gay, or lesbian, understanding and embracing this identity can be a significant step towards self-acceptance. Here are some tips for coming out about androsexuality:
- Understand and embrace your identity: Recognize what androsexuality means for you personally and be comfortable with it before sharing with others.
- Build a support network: Connect with the broader queer community to gain belonging and understanding, which can help you trust and express your identity more authentically.
- Prepare emotionally: Allow yourself to grieve any past feelings of disconnection or internalized shame associated with hiding your truth, and treat yourself with compassion throughout this process.
- Seek affirming professional support if needed: Therapists who specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues can help navigate coming out and self-acceptance.
Being an ally to the androsexual community involves educating oneself on androsexuality and broader queer identities, creating inclusive environments, listening and validating experiences, amplifying voices, and advocating against discrimination. By avoiding assumptions about gender identities and sexual orientations, educating others on LGBTQIA+ issues, and supporting campaigns promoting LGBTQIA+ equality, anyone can support androsexual people and be an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community.
It's important to remember that each individual has the autonomy to decide when, how, and if they disclose their sexual orientation. A negative response to disclosing one's sexual orientation is not the fault of the person sharing their identity. Preparing ahead, discussing LGBTQIA+ issues with others before disclosing, and having a trusted individual for support can make this process easier.
Resources like the Safe Zone Project, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and The Trevor Project offer valuable support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing resources, an online community, and a 24/7 helpline. For more evidence-based health information and resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals, visit a dedicated hub.
In conclusion, understanding and embracing androsexuality is a journey towards self-acceptance and community inclusion. By following these tips and seeking out supportive resources, individuals can navigate this journey with confidence and resilience.
- Recognizing the importance of mental health, it's crucial for individuals identifying as androsexual to seek out affirming professional support, particularly therapists who specialize in gender and sexual identity, to help navigate the unique challenges associated with self-acceptance and coming out.
- To promote a more inclusive and affirming society, it's essential for education and self-development to prioritize understanding and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ identities, including androsexuality, and to actively support campaigns fighting for gender and sexual identity equality.
