Pathologizing and Discriminating against Asexuality in Healthcare Settings

Contact Information:
My name is Katrina Meyer and I am a graduate student at the Silberman School of Social Work of CUNY Hunter College. I am conducting this research as part of the Research I & II curriculum.

If you have any questions about the study, you can contact me at:
katrina.meyer33@myhunter.cuny.edu

If you have any additional questions, my professor, Adam Reynolds, may be contacted at:
areyno@hunter.cuny.edu

Purpose of the study:
The purpose of this study is to explore the pathologization of asexuality, the experiences of discrimination faced by asexual individuals in healthcare settings, and the intersectionality of asexuality with other aspects of identity, such as race and gender. This research aims to contribute to a greater understanding of asexuality as a valid sexual orientation and to reduce stigmatization against asexual individuals.

Participation Requirements:
Participation is voluntary. To participate in this study, you MUST:
• be AT LEAST 18 years of age
• identify somewhere on the ASEXUAL spectrum (e.g. demisexual, grey-asexual, cupiosexual, etc.).

What to Expect:
You will be asked to answer approximately 30 questions using a Likert scale to rate your experiences, perceptions, and interactions with healthcare providers. The survey is expected to take 15-20 minutes. You may exit the study or skip any questions at any time.

Confidentiality:
Your identity will remain confidential—only your responses (not your name or other identifying information) will be collected. Data will be securely stored and only accessed by the researcher (Katrina Meyer) and my professor (Adam Reynolds). 

Potential Risks and Benefits:
Some questions may address sensitive and distressing topics related to asexuality and discrimination, which may cause emotional discomfort. If you experience distress, support resources will be provided at the end of the consent form and at the end of the survey. While there is no monetary compensation for participating, your involvement may contribute to a greater awareness of asexuality and discrimination in healthcare. 

Resources:
If you need support, you can reach out to the following organizations:
The Trevor Project
988 Crisis Line
The Asexuality Visibility and Education Network (AVEN)

By selecting a response below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this information and voluntarily agree to participate.