Spectrasexual
1. What Does Spectrasexual Actually Mean?
Okay, so you've stumbled across the term "spectrasexual" and are probably thinking, "Another sexuality I've never heard of? What's next, attraction to polka dots?" Don't worry, it's not as complicated as it sounds. Simply put, a spectrasexual (noun) is someone who is attracted to people based on their placement on the gender spectrum, but they aren't attracted to all genders. It's all about the range, the nuance, the vibe of gender presentation.
Think of it like this: imagine a color wheel. Instead of being attracted to, say, just blue (like being attracted to only men) or everything on the wheel (like pansexuality), a spectrasexual might be attracted to shades of blue, teal, and some greens, but completely uninterested in reds or yellows. The specific shades, or in this case, genders and gender presentations that someone is attracted to will vary greatly.
This attraction isn't necessarily about physical traits either. It's often about how someone expresses their gender. Maybe it's a certain way someone carries themselves, their fashion choices, or their overall energy. It's like, you see a person and something just clicks. The key takeaway is that the 'click' is related to their gender identity, or rather, how they choose to express it. Gender expression matters.
It's also important to realize that spectrasexuality is a valid and real orientation. Don't fall into the trap of thinking it's just some made-up term. Like any other sexual orientation, it's a genuine way that people experience attraction. It's a descriptor for a complex and deeply personal feeling.
