How will I know if I'm Ace or not?
I was thinking about this before but I dismissed it, but the thought came back again and I’m curious. I’m a straight autistic 19F who’s an ally to the lgbt+ community. I have no interest in ever getting married, I am currently single and I like being single (though I know someday I might get a bf if the right guy comes across me but still), I don’t ever want to have sex… ever. I’ve never got any flirts or anything from guys but just looks or compliments (nothing wrong with that ofc), I never flirted a guy a day of my life i only give them looks or I just think to myself that their cute etc. I’ve never cared about a man’s private part(s) (like eww). If I was in a relationship now, I wouldn’t mind kisses, snuggles and stuff just not sex. And I know some straight individuals who have the same/similar manner as I do but they don’t consider themselves as Ace while others on the other hand DO consider themselves as Ace. So I’m wondering if I’m Ace or not. I would really appreciate it!! Thanks!
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I’m not sure if an interest in kissing (intimate/passionate kissing?) and affectionate embracing would disqualify you from being considered asexual or not. Ultimately, I don’t think labels matter all that much other than to help find resources and articles that resonate with you. The most important thing to understand is the importance of communicating your boundaries, likes and dislikes with a potential partner and make sure they understand and respect those boundaries back. We all have different interests in this regard and the only unhealthy thing is to go against your own feelings.
I hope you find someone to kiss and snuggle with.
I’m not a great one for labels and I’d never heard of “ace” before. You are what God made you so you have the same authority as anyone else to express your unique identity. You have the same power to make yourself and others happy and fulfilled. No one can give you a label you do not choose for yourself.
Why does this matter to you? You are who you are now and will evolve over time.
Enjoy life, focus on who you are and what makes you happy. Forget about classifications.
^You don’t have to be a complete jerk about answering.
To the OP, understanding yourself is something that will come in the next several years. Give yourself some grace and some time to live and grow.
It’s really impossible to know how you will feel if you meet a guy you really like. You may feel the same, or you may decide to try some things. Both are completely ok.
Right now, take some deep breaths. Give yourself some room to grow.
^^ Pardon about “being a jerk”? My sentiment is likened to what you wrote.
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I think the answer will reveal itself over time. At one time I felt the same as you but one amazing lover changed that.
I’m not a big fan of labels either, especially at such a young age, as you likely have only had immature lovers, if any, which are notoriously horrible.
Embrace your own feelings.
Response moderated (Unhelpful)
Response moderated
Another factor that may help clarify if you’re asexual is if you masturbate (not that you need to disclose that here). If you never masturbate, that’s probably a good indication that you’re asexual. If you do masturbate, it’s still possible to be asexual. Hope that helps.
I know I’m completely out of my league here, but I wanted to offer my support. 19 is a difficult time in life. Your brain is getting closer to an established identity.
If you (op) were my daughter, I’d tell you to contact some groups who specialize in sexuality. They may be able to guide you, in your understanding of your feelings…
I would add, carrying a label can seem comforting. But. I think in time, you will/should value your uniqueness. Most importantly, be you. Be genuine. Don’t try to fit into categories that may not make sense for you. Labels (like Ace,) are really just words. There may not be a “word” for what you are. That just makes you a gorgeous, unique person.
I feel that I have to ask, has the op been a victim of sexual abuse? ( You don’t have to answer that.)
Another question would be, are you happy with your self image?
If someone feels ugly, or undesirable, they cannot enjoy closeness, or being nude around others…
At any rate, I believe there are at least some hotlines available 24/7 for people with similar questions. That could be a good starting point.
I wish you all the best.
Peace and love.
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