Emerged in online LGBTQ+ and ace-spectrum communities in the 2000s–2010s as community members sought language for self-directed attraction. Related to but distinct from aegosexual (which involves attraction to sexual scenarios not involving oneself). The terms remain relatively niche but are recognized within microlabel and A-spec communities.
Common myths
"Autosexual is just narcissism." Autosexuality describes a pattern of attraction, not a personality disorder. Narcissistic Personality Disorder involves a lack of empathy and grandiose self-importance; autosexuality is simply experiencing oneself as sexually attractive without those implications.
"Autosexual people can't have relationships." Many autosexual people have fulfilling relationships with others; self-directed attraction does not preclude other-directed attraction.
"Autoromantic is self-obsession." Autoromantic describes a pattern of romantic feeling toward oneself - a form of self-love - not a clinical condition.
