Aromanticism Beyond Asexuality: A Call for Aromanticism Studies

• In Event: Beyond Mononormativity in the Sociology of Sexualities

Abstract

In this study, we argue for the importance of decoupling aromanticism from asexuality. We draw on four survey data sources (Asexual Community Survey, Aromantic Census, Relationship Types Survey, and Singles Survey) to 1) demonstrate that aromanticism and asexuality can, but do not necessarily, coexist and 2) provide empirical analyses of differences in identity, behavior, and attraction across sexual and romantic identity subgroups. This study has implications for future research into sexual identity and normative romance. It also highlights how assumptions embedded in data collection create limitations of knowledge by approaching romantic identities as nested within—rather than intersecting with—sexual identities. We conclude by arguing for the value of the growth of aromanticism studies.

Authors

• Hannah Tessler, University of Michigan

• Canton Winer, Northern Illinois University