Glossary A

Ascetic refers to a person who denies himself pleasures or comforts (for religious or other reasons).

Asceticism refers to the practice of a lifestyle that rejects sensual pleasures such as drinking alcohol, eating rich food, or engaging in sex. Moreover, Asceticism refers to an approach to life emphasizing discipline and impulse control.

Asch situation refers to an experimental procedure developed by Solomon Asch in his studies of conformity to group opinion. Participants believed they were making perceptual judgments as part of a group, but the other members were confederates who made deliberate errors on certain trials.

Ascribed status refers to status, class, rank, or position determined by family lineage, gender, birth order, or skin color.

ASDs is the abbreviations of Autism spectrum disorders which refers to developmental disorders including Autism, Asperger's syndrome, Rett's disorder, and Childhood disintegrative disorder which are characterized by impairment in communication skills, social interactions, and repetitive, stereotyped behavior. ASDs are also referred to as Developmental disorders.

Asexual means "not having sexual interests or abilities."

Asexual relationship refers to a type of intimate relationship in which the partners do not engage in sexual behavior.

Asexuality usually refers to the lack of sexual desire, but can also refer to a lack of maleness or femaleness.