Lithosexuality, also commonly referred to as akoisexuality, is a fascinating but lesser-known sexual orientation that can be classified within the spectrum of asexual. It is true that those with a lithosexual orientation have sexual attraction; however, they do not expect reciprocation of such an attraction from the person they are attracted to.
This unusual orientation brings about a separate relationship dynamic and a definition of self-identity.
They often become sexually attracted to others but lose interest when those feelings are returned. This makes them like the sight of attraction from a distance, where they can indulge in the idea of being drawn to someone without the complexity that comes with mutual involvement.
Key characteristics of lithosexuality include
Attraction without reciprocity: Lithosexuals are attracted to others but do not want their feelings to be returned.
Satisfaction from Observation: They often enjoy the idea of attraction without the need for a physical or emotional connection.
Loss of Interest Upon Reciprocity: If the object of their attraction shows interest in return, they may lose their desire.
Preference for Solo Activities: Many lithosexual individuals find fulfilment in solo sexual activities rather than engaging in sexual relationships with others.
Distinction from Other Sexual Orientations
Lithosexuality bears some similarities with other asexual identities but is unique in its distinctiveness. While for an asexual, the sexual attraction is absent in their life, lithosexuals are sexually attracted to others but do not wish for this attraction to be reciprocated. Similar to a romanticism, which is the absence of romantic attraction, lithosexuality refers specifically to the feeling of non reciprocated sexual attraction.
Prehistory and Terminology
The term “lithosexual” is taken from the Ancient Greek word “litho,” which translates to stone or rock, symbolizing emotional distance and a certain “hardness” when it comes to feelings toward others. Sometimes, this term is used interchangeably with “akoisexual,” butother communities might prefer one over the other to avoid connotations associated with lesbian culture. “Stone” lesbians have a specific meaning tied to nonreciprocal sexual preference, which may influence some people‘s choice of self-labeling.
Other Less Well-Known Sexual Orientations
Lithosexuality is another sexual orientation outside the range of a traditional sexual attraction spectrum, and it has some competition. Here are several others in the mix:
Demisexuality: An individual with sexual attraction after having become emotionally intimate with someone.
Graysexuality: An individual who finds sexual attraction in infrequent or sporadic instances and exist in this “gray area” as neither an asexual person nor someone who feels sexual attraction on the regular.
Ceterosexuality: People who are fundamentally attracted to transgender or non-binary individuals.
Cupiosexuality: People who lack sexual attraction but have the desire for a sexual life or experience.
Lithosexuality is, in many ways, one of the least discussed facets of the human sexual experience. Though bearing resemblance in certain ways to other identity expressions on the asexuality spectrum, its focus specifically on nonreciprocal sexual attraction is unique. For those who are lithosexual, it’s important to understand and accept their attraction without reciprocation as part of who they are and how they manage relationships. As awareness about lesser-known sexual orientations grows, it is important to keep fostering inclusivity and understanding for all identities within the spectrum.
