Many People Confuse It with Narcissism

For autosexual people, attraction doesn’t necessarily follow the usual path toward other people — it starts with themselves.

Autosexuality is a sexual orientation that’s often misunderstood or confused with narcissism, but the two are very different. So, what does it really mean to be autosexual, and how does it differ from being self-absorbed?

The Essence of Autosexuality

Autosexuality describes a sexual orientation in which a person is primarily aroused by themselves. Rather than seeking others to satisfy their erotic desires, autosexual individuals often turn inward, finding fulfillment through self-pleasure.

According to MindBodyGreen, autosexual people are “sexually attracted to themselves.” This doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy intimacy or relationships — they simply prefer themselves when it comes to satisfying sexual urges.

Autosexual expression can take many forms: favoring masturbation over partnered sex, fantasizing about oneself during sexual activity, enjoying sex in front of mirrors or reflective surfaces, or even dreaming erotically about one’s own body.

Not Narcissism

It’s important to note that autosexuality is not the same as narcissism. While autosexuals focus on themselves in a sexual or romantic sense, narcissistic individuals are infatuated with their own image, craving constant admiration and often exploiting others for personal gain. Autosexuality, by contrast, is about intimacy with oneself — not manipulation or ego gratification.

A Natural Sexual Orientation

Autosexuality isn’t a disorder or illness. It’s simply a sexual orientation, shaped by factors like self-acceptance and the discovery of what methods of self-pleasure work best for the individual

That said, if someone feels their autosexual tendencies interfere with daily life or relationships, seeking guidance from a professional can be helpful. But for most, it’s a completely normal, healthy expression of sexuality.

Understanding autosexuality can deepen self-love, foster acceptance of one’s own desires, and enhance empathy for others. Respecting and embracing this orientation is the first step toward personal growth and sexual empowerment.