Thread: Homosexuality, how can it not be considered an abnormality?

Originally Posted by Thatperson

Lseadragon, when I said asexuality what I meant was, the thing wikipedia calls "Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)".

Oh, you did? Maybe you should read the article on Asexuality too, and see where it differs. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asexuality

And on the article it does say "Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), is considered as a sexual dysfunction and is listed under the Sexual and Gender Identity Disorders of the DSM-IV."

You seem to be continually equating HSDD with Asexuality. They're not entirely the same thing. Taken from the same article:

For this to be regarded as a disorder, it must cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulties.

Most asexuals are fine with their sexuality, and often HSDD occurs within the context of a relationship or a single couple, or as a temporary thing; again not like asexuals.

So Asexuality (or HSDD) is considered a sexual dysfunction but homosexuality is not? Double standards?

Homosexuality was listed as a disorder up till about 1970. It's a matter of cultural recognition; there was no asexual community until the advent of the internet.

As you seem to know the difference could you please clarify for me the difference between HSDD and Asexuality? They seem identical to me :S

As above.

EDIT: Oh Dear. Upon further reading it appears that the Asexual lobby are trying to get HSDD removed as a disorder.

Removing it would be a bad idea, I'll give you that; asexuals do not have any sort of monopoly on HSDD. For some people who previously had higher levels of sexual desire it is a disorder, and one which needs treatment. I hope it's redefined to exclude those who've had it lifelong, and are going to treatment because they feel something's wrong with that due to sexualised cultural messages.

I mean. It is not biologically beneficial. But it's good in every other way. The world doesn't need any more kids.