We live in an ever-changing world, and gender and sexuality may be the most discussed topic in the 2010s. But even an entire decade later, many people are confused about many different terms and where they lie on the spectrum of gender and sexuality. So today, we’re going to learn a term that is not talked about too much. We’re going to learn about the term panromantic asexual.
What’s the difference between a romantic attraction and a physical attraction?
Physical attraction is wanting to have sex with someone, but not necessarily wanting to be their partner will be romantic with them. You will know this term as Lust. Lust when you desire to sleep with someone, and when you do, the magic is over, and you don’t want them in your bed anymore. It just satisfies the body.
Romantic attraction is when you want to have a strong, layered, deep commitment to someone. This is the attraction in which relationships are made.
To most heterosexual people, physical attraction and romantic attraction go together, and it is tough to separate someone having a romantic attraction to someone without a sexual attraction as well. We are more comfortable picturing a sexual relationship without any romance, though.
So then, what does panromantic mean?
Someone who is panromantic is romantically but not sexually attracted to any gender identity. This is different from a perceptual person because a bisexual is only attracted to men or women. But someone who is panromantic is attracted to many other types of gendered people: by gender, gender fluid, inter-gender Demi gender, all the different types of genders.
Also, notice that we said they are romantically attracted; we did not say that they were physically attracted. This is a crucial difference you need to understand. If a panromantic person becomes romantically attracted to someone, it means that they wish to have a romantic relationship with them but not include sex. This may sound strange to you because, to most heteronormative people, romantic love and sexual love go hand in hand. Most heterosexuals become romantically involved with their partners, and they also wish to have sex with them.
Now, What does asexual mean?
Someone who is asexual does not experience sexual attraction to anyone, regardless of their gender. They may have a little bit of sexual attraction, but it’s so tiny that there is no reason to bring it up. Now, you may think that no sexual attraction means that they don’t have sex, but these are two different concepts. They can have sex without being sexually attracted to anyone, but they mostly do it for their partner, who has sexual needs. But this does not mean that asexuals don’t want to be in a committed relationship with someone. It just means that they don’t have sexual urges for their partners or anyone.
Okay, so then what is a panromantic asexual?
If someone is panromantic, then that means that you’re attractive romantically to any gender. If someone is asexual, it means that they don’t have sexual urges for anyone, even their partner. So, this compound term, panromantic asexual, means that this type of person is someone who wants to be in a romantic partnership with someone that is any gender but doesn’t want to include a sexual relationship.
Is panromantic asexual a gender or sexuality?
No, panromantic asexual is not a gender. However, any of the other genders could be panromantic asexual. It is a way of expressing romance and sexuality. So, a person who is agender or without gender can have little to no sexual desires for anyone because they’re asexual, and they can feel romantic attraction for all other genders because they’re panromantic. I understand that a topic like this becomes more and more confusing as we slowly add more terms to what you already know, but just be patient. The more you learn about expressing romantic attraction, physical attraction, and your gender, the more you will understand the complex world of gender and sexuality.
Ask Artificial intelligence!
Panromantic asexuality is a unique orientation within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, combining elements of both panromantic and asexual identities. Understanding this orientation can help foster acceptance and support for individuals who identify this way.
What is Panromantic Asexuality?
A panromantic asexual person experiences romantic attraction towards individuals regardless of their gender but does not experience sexual attraction. This means they can form deep, emotional bonds and romantic relationships with people of any gender, but they do not feel the desire for sexual activity.
Signs of Panromantic Asexuality
- Romantic Attraction Without Sexual Desire: One of the most defining signs is the ability to feel strong romantic feelings towards others while lacking sexual attraction. A panromantic asexual might crave companionship, love, and intimacy, but not sexual contact.
- Inclusive Romantic Attraction: Panromantic asexuals are attracted to people of all genders. They may find themselves romantically drawn to men, women, non-binary individuals, and others across the gender spectrum.
- Emphasis on Emotional Connection: Emotional intimacy and connection are paramount. Panromantic asexuals often seek partners who can engage in deep, meaningful conversations and share a strong emotional bond.
- Comfort with Non-Sexual Intimacy: They might enjoy physical closeness, such as hugging, kissing, or cuddling, as forms of expressing love and affection without the desire for sexual interaction.
- Self-Identification and Community: Many panromantic asexuals may discover their orientation through personal reflection and interaction with the asexual and panromantic communities. They might participate in online forums, support groups, or attend LGBTQ+ events to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Symptoms of Discomfort or Misunderstanding
- Feeling Out of Place in Romantic Norms: They might feel pressured or confused by societal expectations that equate romance with sexual activity. This can lead to discomfort or a sense of not fitting in.
- Communication Challenges in Relationships: Explaining their orientation to potential partners can be challenging. Misunderstandings may arise if the partner expects sexual attraction to accompany romantic interest.
- Internal Conflict: Some may struggle with internalized doubts or questions about their orientation, especially if they are unaware that panromantic asexuality is a recognized and valid identity.
Understanding and acknowledging panromantic asexuality helps create a more inclusive and supportive environment. By recognizing these signs and characteristics, we can better support those who identify as panromantic asexual in their journey toward self-acceptance and fulfilling relationships.
Conclusion
Well, this has been a very enlightening article. The spectrum of gender and the spectrum of sexuality is ever-growing and redefining itself. It is best to approach the subject with an open mind and a respectful curiosity. If you ever meet someone who is panromantic asexual, or both, like we have learned today, you may want to ask them some questions about themselves. But try to do your best to make sure they’re in the right state of mind. All people just want to live their lives and not be bothered or harassed. If you do ask them, make sure to ask them when they’re alone and perhaps on their break. When you do finally talk to someone, make sure your questions are fair and respectful, and don’t ask any questions that you wouldn’t want to be asked.
