Reciprosexual

Reciprosexual is a sexual orientation within the asexual spectrum. People may describe themselves as reciprosexual if they experience sexual attraction to another person only after they know or clearly perceive that the other person first feels sexual attraction or sexual interest toward them. The term comes from “reciprocal” and refers to sexual attraction becoming returned or mutual.

Reciprosexuality describes a pattern of sexual attraction, not simply the wish for sexual interest to be mutual. Many people want sexual interest to be reciprocated; for reciprosexual people, however, sexual attraction typically arises only through the other person’s prior sexual attraction. How explicit that attraction needs to be can vary: some people may need a clear verbal statement, while others respond to unambiguous signals, trust, or a situation that feels safe.

The term is a self-description and not a medical or psychological diagnosis. Reciprosexual people may have sexual relationships, but they do not have to; their experiences may also overlap with other orientations such as demisexual, asexual, aromantic, or alloromantic. Even when sexual attraction arises only in response to another person’s interest, consent, clear communication, and respected boundaries remain essential.