Pseudosexual Attraction is a type of physical attraction where an individual experiences an inherent, physical desire to explore, feel, or otherwise sense the target of attraction. This attraction (unlike sensual attraction or aesthetic attraction) mimics sexual attraction, often by being followed by arousal or a libido spike which are generally characteristic of sexual attraction.
This attraction can present itself as a strong desire to explore an individual(s) with any sense(s). This distinguishes pseudosexual attraction from mirous attraction which is limited to a desire for visual exploration.
History
Pseudosexual attraction was coined by Reddit user AnonymousHermitCrab in the subreddit r/asexuality on February 13th, 2022.[1] The attraction was created as an alternative for the asexual spectrum identity pseudosexual which could be used by people who don't feel like that label fits or who are not on the asexual spectrum.
Etymology
The term pseudosexual attraction is based on the Greek root word "pseudo-" meaning "false." The root word "pseudo-" was chosen to represent how tertiary physical attractions present themselves as a false (pseudo) sexual attraction.