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Moran JB, Airington Z, McGee E, Murray DR. (Mis)Perceiving Sexual Intent: A Mixed-Method Approach Investigating Sexual Overperception Across Diverse Sexual Identities. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:511-524. [PMID: 38066352 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02748-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Research on perceptions of sexual interest has documented the tendency for men to overperceive sexual interest (i.e., to perceive a social signal as indicating more sexual intent than the actor intended). However, this work has almost exclusively focused upon these dynamics among heterosexual individuals. Thus, the current set of studies aimed to understand how perceptions of sexual interest manifest among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) women and men. In Study 1 (N = 85), LGB women and men nominated behaviors that signal sexual intent. Using an act nomination approach, LGB women and men tended to nominate behaviors similar to those nominated by heterosexual women and men. In Study 2 (N = 43), gay men reported acts that were representative of their own and other gay men's sexual interest. Consistent with previous work-by comparing perceived self-reported versus others' sexual intent when engaging in specific behaviors-we found no evidence for a sexual overperception bias in gay men, albeit in a small field study. In Study 3 (N = 307), using a gender-by-sexual orientation design, heterosexual and LGB women and men reported previous experiences in which their friendliness was sexually misperceived. Bisexual women were less likely than other groups to report their friendliness being misinterpreted as sexual by other bisexual women and/or lesbians. Additionally, across all genders and sexual orientations, participants reported feelings of indifference, awkwardness and embarrassment when being misperceived. Ultimately, the current studies' results provide broader insight into the nature of sexual overperception among LGB populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James B Moran
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA.
| | - Zachary Airington
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Emily McGee
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Damian R Murray
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
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2
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Beckmeyer JJ, Herbenick D, Eastman-Mueller H. Sexual pleasure during college students' most recent partnered sexual experiences. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2550-2561. [PMID: 34634225 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1978461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ObjectiveWe explored college students' sexual pleasure using a new self-report measure, the Body, Emotions, Sensations, Touch/Trust (B.E.S.T.) Scale of Sexual Pleasure. Participants: Data were from 3997 randomly sampled students with a partnered sexual experience. Methods: Students completed an online survey about their most recent partnered sexual experience. Data was collected in January 2020. Results: Students find the nonphysical aspects of partnered sex (e.g., emotions, trust, connection with partners) as pleasurable as physical aspects (e.g., behaviors engaged and received, bodily sensations). Self-reported arousal, wantedness, and emotional intimacy were the strongest correlates of male, female, and transgender/gender non-binary students' sexual pleasure. Few sexual behaviors were associated with sexual pleasure and only one - cuddling for women - was associated with greater sexual pleasure. Conclusions: Students find their partnered sexual experiences pleasurable. Students' sex may be more pleasurable when they feel ready for sex, desire sex, and feel close to their partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon J Beckmeyer
- Department of Counseling and Learning Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Debby Herbenick
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Heather Eastman-Mueller
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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3
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Harris EA, Hornsey MJ, Hofmann W, Jern P, Murphy SC, Hedenborg F, Barlow FK. Does Sexual Desire Fluctuate More Among Women than Men? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:1461-1478. [PMID: 36695962 PMCID: PMC10125944 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02525-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
There is a lay assumption that women's sexual desire varies substantially over time, whereas men's is stable. This assumption is mirrored in prominent theories of desire, which posit that women are more variable than men in the extent to which they desire sex, and that women's sexual desire is more contextually sensitive than men's. We tested this assumption across three longitudinal studies. Study 1 assessed desire at 3 time points spanning 13 years (Nobservations = 5562), and Studies 2 and 3 (Nobservations = 11,282) assessed desire moment-to-moment over 7 days. When desire was measured over years, women were more variable in their sexual desire than men (Study 1). However, we found a different pattern of results when desire was measured over the short term. In Studies 2 and 3, we found no significant differences in women's and men's desire variability. The extent to which desire varied as a function of affective states (e.g., happiness) and relationship-oriented states (e.g., partner closeness) was similar for women and men, with some exceptions; women's desire was more negatively associated with tiredness and anger in Study 2. These data qualify existing assumptions about sex differences in sexual desire variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Harris
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia.
| | | | - Wilhelm Hofmann
- Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Patrick Jern
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Åbo, Finland
| | - Sean C Murphy
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Fanny Hedenborg
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Åbo, Finland
| | - Fiona K Barlow
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Meskó N, Zsidó AN, Birkás B, Meston CM, Buss DM. Why Hungarians Have Sex: Development and Validation of a Brief 15-Item Instrument (YSEX?-15H). ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:4007-4022. [PMID: 35939160 PMCID: PMC9663389 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02380-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The present study developed a brief version of the Hungarian Why Sex? questionnaire (Meskó et al., 2022). The study was in part based on previously reported data obtained from several samples (N = 6193; 1976 men, 4217 women). Using Mokken Scaling Procedure, Item Response Model and redundancy analysis indicated that retaining three summary scales comprising five items each was the optimal solution for the brief version. The validity of the brief scale was tested with the Sexual System Functioning Scale (SSFS), the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale-Short Form (ECR-S) and, the Hungarian version of the Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ-H; n = 297, 127 men, 170 women). In addition, correlations between the long and brief versions of YSEX? with sociosexual orientation (SOI-R) and the five-factor personality construct (BFI-S) were compared (n = 1024, 578 women, 446 men). The results suggest that the three summary scales of the Hungarian 15-item Form of the Why Sex Questionnaire (YSEX?-15H) provide reliable and valid measures of the previously affirmed three broad sexual motives (Personal Goal Attainment, Relational Reasons, Sex as Coping). The Relational Reasons summary scale was associated with secure emotional and sexual attachment. The Personal Goal Attainment and Sex as Coping summary scales showed coherent patterns of associations with the emotional and sexual aspects of secondary attachment strategies (over- and under-functioning). The YSEX?-15H offers both researchers and practitioners a concise and useful instrument for the assessment of sexual motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Meskó
- Institute of Psychology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság utca 6., Pécs, 7624, EU, Hungary.
| | - András N Zsidó
- Institute of Psychology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság utca 6., Pécs, 7624, EU, Hungary
| | - Béla Birkás
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, EU, Hungary
| | - Cindy M Meston
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - David M Buss
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Bogen KW, Jones HR, Lorenz TK. Relational and Trait Factors Mediate the Associations between Women's Intoxication-Related Unwanted Sexual Experiences, Pleasure, and Desire. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:1175-1191. [PMID: 35262426 PMCID: PMC9458769 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2030661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite documented negative sexual health sequelae of unwanted sexual contact (USC), it is unclear why individuals who have experienced USC within the context of intoxication (intoxication-related USC) are at particular risk for poor sexual functioning. Intoxication-related USC may impact relational factors like relationship satisfaction, as trauma symptoms interfere with emotional closeness during sex. Additionally, although individual traits - such as sexual excitation and sensation seeking - affect the relationship between trauma and sexual functioning, it is unknown whether these factors differentially impact those who have experienced intoxication-related USC. Finally, because presence of a partner may evoke trauma-related symptoms during partnered (dyadic) sexual activity, mediators may differ across solitary versus dyadic sexual pleasure and desire. We tested relational and individual trait mediators of the association between intoxication-related USC and solitary and dyadic sexual pleasure and desire in a sample of heterosexual and sexual minority women. Trait factors consistently mediated the association between intoxication-related USC and both dyadic and solitary desire and pleasure, while relational factors such as emotional closeness were inconsistently related to sexual wellbeing. If replicated, these findings would suggest that trait factors may be useful targets for clinical sexual wellness interventions among sexuality-diverse women who have experienced intoxication-related USC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine W. Bogen
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Department of Psychology; 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior; C89 East Stadium, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Harper R. Jones
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Department of Psychology; 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior; C89 East Stadium, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Tierney K. Lorenz
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Department of Psychology; 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior; C89 East Stadium, Lincoln, NE 68588
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Spencer RA, Yount KM, Essaid AA, Cheong YF, Sajdi J, Taleb RA, Bergenfeld I, Batayeh B, Sandhu S, Robbin Z, Zwooqar A, Clark CJ. Adapting and Validating the Sexual Experiences Questionnaire to Study Sexual Harassment Among University Women in Jordan. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP18465-NP18495. [PMID: 34404268 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211035880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite the adverse effects of sexual harassment, measurement gaps persist. Using a sequential, mixed-methods approach, we adapted and validated the Sexual Experiences Questionnaire (SEQ) to measure sexual harassment victimization among college-going women in Jordan. From a 213-item pool and qualitative data from students at the study site, we removed 50 items and collapsed or rephrased 163 items into selected 27 items for examination. After expert reviewers and study-site staff assessed content validity, we replaced three items. Items were tested using cognitive interviews (n = 7) and then administered in a survey to 567 women students. We sequentially performed exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with a random split-half sample (N1 = 283), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with the second sample (N2 = 284), and confirmatory bifactor analysis. Five items with cross-factor loadings were dropped. Model fit for the final four-factor EFA and CFA was adequate (EFA: RMSEA: 0.013, CFI: 0.996, TLI: 0.994; CFA: RMSEA 0.020, CFI: 0.988, TLI: 0.986). Three factors were similar to those identified in the SEQ-gender harassment, sexual coercion, and unwanted sexual attention-but we also identified a fourth factor-physical-contact sexual harassment. The bifactor analysis suggested that the scale was unidimensional (general factor ECV=.701 and PUC =.727). The unidimensional scale was positively associated with depressive symptoms. Using an adapted SEQ, sexual harassment is a measurable construct in the Jordanian university context. Further validation of this tool and efforts to capture each dimension of sexual harassment in the Arab region is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aida A Essaid
- Information and Research Center-King Hussein Foundation, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Jude Sajdi
- Information and Research Center-King Hussein Foundation, Amman, Jordan
| | - Rand Abu Taleb
- Information and Research Center-King Hussein Foundation, Amman, Jordan
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7
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Thorpe S, Malone N, Dogan JN, Cineas MR, Vigil K, Hargons CN. Exploring differences in Black heterosexual and queer women’s sexual experiences through a Black queer feminist lens. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2022.2077927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shemeka Thorpe
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Natalie Malone
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jardin N. Dogan
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Marla R. Cineas
- Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, Clayton State University, Morrow, GA, USA
| | - Kasey Vigil
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Candice N. Hargons
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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8
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Nimbi FM, Simonelli C. The Sex Therapists' Approach to the Evaluation and Management of Low Sex Drive in Men. J Sex Med 2022; 19:546-552. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Norris AE, Smith AU, Ferranti D, Choi HJ. The Measurement of Female Early Adolescent Sexual Desire. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:69-84. [PMID: 33739211 PMCID: PMC8449793 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1891190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We used the developmental systems model to deduce a definition of female early adolescent sexual desire. We evaluated a measure of this phenomenon with a secondary analysis of data from a randomized group sexual health intervention trial involving low-income, English-speaking, seventh grade Latinas enrolled in a Miami-Dade County public school (n = 542). As part of this study, girls completed a four-item early adolescent sexual desire (EASD) measure. Study findings supported internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .81 to .82) and stability over a 1-month period (r = .74). Developmental sensitivity was supported by a decline in stability over 12- (r = .66) and 24-month periods (r = .56). Validity was supported by correlations with puberty changes, sexual intentions, sexting, and sexual behavior, and hypothesized mean differences associated with dating and preference for shoes culturally associated with female sexual attractiveness (p < .01). Research implications include validation work with other ethnic/racial groups and using the EASD as a starting point for a measurement continuum tracking development of sexual desire across adolescence and into adulthood. Directions for future research also include measuring the development of sexual desire in boys and transgendered youth across adolescence and into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Norris
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami
| | - Ariel U Smith
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago
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10
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Meskó N, Szatmári D, Láng A, Meston CM, Buss DM. Why Hungarians Have Sex (YSEX?-HSF). ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:465-489. [PMID: 34773215 PMCID: PMC8858278 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02072-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Using the same methodology as Meston and Buss (2007), three studies were conducted on a Hungarian sample (total N = 4913) which corroborate previous findings on the universal diversity of sexual motivation. Study 1 (N = 2728; 1069 women and 1659 men) identified 197 reasons for having sex based on participants' free responses. In Study 2 (N = 1161; 820 women and 341 men), participants indicated the extent to which each of the 197 reasons had led them to have sexual intercourse. Factor analyses yielded three factors and 24 subfactors. This differed from the original YSEX? four-factor questionnaire. In Study 3 (N = 1024; 578 women and 446 men), a reliable and valid 73-item short form version of the YSEX? questionnaire was developed in a Hungarian sample (YSEX?-HSF). In addition to similarities and differences in the factor structure, we found important links between reasons for having sex and age, gender, personality, and mating strategy. For example, number of reasons for having sex tended be higher in younger compared to older participants. Men exceeded women on having sex for novelty-seeking and infidelity opportunities, whereas women exceeded men on having sex for relationship commitment and mate retention. Extraversion and neuroticism were linked with reasons for having sex, and those who pursued a short-term mating strategy reported having sex for a larger variety of reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Meskó
- Institute of Psychology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6., Pécs, 7624, Hungary.
| | - Dóra Szatmári
- Institute of Psychology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6., Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - András Láng
- Institute of Psychology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6., Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Cindy M Meston
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - David M Buss
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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van Anders SM, Herbenick D, Brotto LA, Harris EA, Chadwick SB. The Heteronormativity Theory of Low Sexual Desire in Women Partnered with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:391-415. [PMID: 34426898 PMCID: PMC8382213 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02100-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Low sexual desire in women partnered with men is typically presumed to be a problem-one that exists in women and encourages a research agenda on causation and treatment targeting women. In this paper, we present a distinct way forward for research on low sexual desire in women partnered with men that attends to a more structural explanation: heteronormativity. A heteronormative worldview assumes that relationships and structures are heterosexual, gender (usually conflated with sex) is binary and complementary, and gender roles fit within narrow bounds including nurturant labor for women. We propose the heteronormativity theory of low sexual desire in women partnered with men, arguing that heteronormative gender inequities are contributing factors. We outline four hypotheses and their predictions related to: inequitable divisions of household labor, blurring of partner and mother roles, objectification of women, and gender norms surrounding sexual initiation. We discuss some mechanisms-social, physiological, and otherwise-for the heteronormativity theory, especially related to stress, objectification, and nurturance. We close by noting some limitations of our paper and the ways that the heteronormativity theory of low sexual desire in women partnered with men provides a rigorous, generative, and empirical way forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari M van Anders
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, 62 Arch Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
- Department of Gender Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Debby Herbenick
- School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Emily A Harris
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, 62 Arch Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Sara B Chadwick
- Departments of Psychology and Women's and Gender Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Basson R. Basson's Response to Dr. Balon's Commentary. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 48:5-9. [PMID: 34772316 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2021.1904069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Basson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Abstract
A critique of the literature that androgen deficit underlies women's sexual dysfunctions is provided. Although there is scant evidence that androgens are responsible, many aspects of androgen activity remain to be investigated. Research does link serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to women's sexual desire but apparently not via DHEA's androgenic activity. Current assessment and management of women's sexual dysfunction are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Basson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Buczak-Stec E, König HH, Hajek A. Sexual satisfaction of middle-aged and older adults: longitudinal findings from a nationally representative sample. Age Ageing 2021; 50:559-564. [PMID: 32960208 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afaa161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND whilst previous studies have investigated the determinants of sexual satisfaction (i) using longitudinal data or (ii) among older adults, only a few studies have done both at the sametime. OBJECTIVE the purpose of this study was to investigate the determinants of sexual satisfaction longitudinally among middle-aged and older adults. DESIGN nationally representative longitudinal study (German Ageing Survey-DEAS). SETTING community-dwelling individuals in Germany. Data drawn from three waves (2002, 2008, 2011). SUBJECTS individuals aged 40-95 (36.9% age group 65+). At wave 2 in the year 2002, n = 3,843 individuals took part. METHODS well-established and widely used scales were used to quantify the independent variables. We included variables such as sociodemographic factors, self-rated health, physical functioning, depression and loneliness in our analysis. Sexual satisfaction was our outcome measure. Results were stratified by age (40-64, 65+). To take into account the multilevel data structure, we used random coefficient models. RESULTS random-effects regressions showed that increased sexual satisfaction was consistently associated with the following variables in both age groups: lower number of physical illnesses, β = -0.03, P < 0.001 (betas coefficients given for individuals 65 years and over); better self-rated health, β = -0.06, P < 0.001; absence of depression, β = -0.16, P < 0.01; and higher importance of sexuality and intimacy, β = 0.08, P < 0.001. Moreover, sexual satisfaction was associated with having a partner: β = 0.16, P < 0.001; living with a partner in the same household, β = 0.26, P < 0.001; and a lower score of loneliness, β = -.28, P < 0.001. In contrast, sexual satisfaction was, for example, not associated with cognitive functioning. CONCLUSIONS the most surprising findings were that among both middle-aged and older adults, almost the same determinants (with exception of sociodemographic factors) were associated with satisfaction with sexlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Buczak-Stec
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
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Vallejo-Medina P, Rojas-Paoli I, Álvarez-Muelas A. Validation of the Sexual Desire Inventory in Colombia. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2020; 46:385-398. [PMID: 32189586 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2020.1739181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Sexual desire is a cognitive and affective state that motivates an individual to engage in sexual activity. There are no validated measures to assess this construct in Colombia. The present study aimed to validate the Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) and explore gender-and age-based differences in sexual desire in Colombian population. The sample was composed of 2,125 men and women who answered the Colombian version of the SDI. Results indicated strict invariance between genders, a three-dimension model, and acceptable validity and reliability indicators. Gender-based and age-based differences were observed in the three types of sexual desire. Implications and conclusions of these findings are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Vallejo-Medina
- SexLabKL, School of Psychology, Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Isamar Rojas-Paoli
- SexLabKL, School of Psychology, Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ana Álvarez-Muelas
- Centro de Investigación, Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento (CIMCYC), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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Rubin JD, Conley TD, Klein V, Liu J, Lehane CM, Dammeyer J. A cross-national examination of sexual desire: The roles of ‘gendered cultural scripts’ and ‘sexual pleasure’ in predicting heterosexual women's desire for sex. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2019.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Schick VR, Baldwin A. Five Questions About the Relational and Bodily Experiences Theory: A Consideration of the Theoretical Framework, the Major Constructs, and Intended Application of the Model. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1703-1707. [PMID: 30560345 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1353-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa R Schick
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health, 1200 Pressler St., Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Aleta Baldwin
- Kinesiology, Health, and Nutrition, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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18
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Sakaluk JK, Fisher AN. Measurement memo I: Updated practices in psychological measurement for sexual scientists. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN SEXUALITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3138/cjhs.2019-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The validity of psychological measurement is a crucial auxiliary theory underlying many sexual science studies. Although many sexuality researchers are familiar with certain elements of psychological measurement, the field of psychological measurement is a developing and evolving literature, with concepts, applications, and techniques that do not always trickle down quickly into interdisciplinary fields like sexual science. The purpose of this Measurement Memo, therefore, is to connect sexual scientists to measurement-related issues, explanations, and resources that they may not otherwise encounter in their scholarly reading. Our review focuses on those carrying out psychological measurement using theories and methods of latent variable modeling, and we identify and summarize key ideas and references that serve as good launching points for sexual scientists to begin to improve their psychological measurement practices, for beginners and seasoned users alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- John K. Sakaluk
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC
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19
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Seto MC. The Motivation-Facilitation Model of Sexual Offending. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2019; 31:3-24. [PMID: 28715948 DOI: 10.1177/1079063217720919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In this article, I describe the motivation-facilitation model of sexual offending, which identifies the traits of paraphilia, high sex drive, and intense mating effort as primary motivations for sexual offenses, as well as trait (e.g., antisocial personality) and state (e.g., intoxication) factors that can facilitate acting on these motivations when opportunities exist. Originally developed to explain contact sexual offending against children, the motivation-facilitation model was subsequently extended as an explanation for child pornography offending and for online solicitations of young adolescents. Here, I argue it has the potential to be expanded to explain other forms of sexual offending, including sexual assaults of adults and noncontact offenses involving exhibitionism or voyeurism. In this review, I critically examine the evidence for and against the model, discuss its limitations, and identify critical gaps for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Seto
- 1 Royal Ottawa Health Care Group, Brockville, Ontario, Canada
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20
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Raisanen JC, Chadwick SB, Michalak N, van Anders SM. Average Associations Between Sexual Desire, Testosterone, and Stress in Women and Men Over Time. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:1613-1631. [PMID: 29845444 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1231-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Sexual desire and testosterone are widely assumed to be directly and positively linked to each other despite the lack of supporting empirical evidence. The literature that does exist is mixed, which may result from a conflation of solitary and dyadic desire, and the exclusion of contextual variables, like stress, known to be relevant. Here, we use the Steroid/Peptide Theory of Social Bonds as a framework for examining how testosterone, solitary and partnered desire, and stress are linked over time. To do so, we collected saliva samples (for testosterone and cortisol) and measured desire as well as other variables via questionnaires over nine monthly sessions in 78 women and 79 men. Linear mixed models showed that testosterone negatively predicted partnered desire in women but not men. Stress moderated associations between testosterone and solitary desire in both women and men, but differently: At lower levels of stress, higher average testosterone corresponded to higher average solitary desire for men, but lower solitary desire on average for women. Similarly, for partnered desire, higher perceived stress predicted lower desire for women, but higher desire for men. We conclude by discussing the ways that these results both counter presumptions about testosterone and desire but fit with the existing literature and theory, and highlight the empirical importance of stress and gender norms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Raisanen
- Departments of Psychology and Women's Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sara B Chadwick
- Departments of Psychology and Women's Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nicholas Michalak
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sari M van Anders
- Departments of Psychology and Women's Studies, Program in Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences Program; Science, Technology and Society Program; Biosocial Methods Collaborative, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, 62 Arch Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
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21
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Chadwick SB, Burke SM, Goldey KL, van Anders SM. Multifaceted Sexual Desire and Hormonal Associations: Accounting for Social Location, Relationship Status, and Desire Target. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:2445-2463. [PMID: 28444531 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-0959-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Sexual desire is typically measured as a unitary erotic phenomenon and is often assumed by biological and biomedical researchers, as well as the lay public, to be directly connected to physiological parameters like testosterone (T). In the present study, we empirically examined how conceptualizing sexual desire as multifaceted might clarify associations with T and contextual variables. To do so, we used the Sexual Desire Questionnaire (DESQ), which assesses multifaceted dyadic sexual desire, to explore how contextual variables such as social location, relationship status, and desire target (e.g., partner vs. stranger) might be meaningful for reports of sexual desire and associated hormonal correlations. We focused on women (N = 198), because sexual desire and testosterone are generally unlinked in healthy men. Participants imagined a partner or stranger while answering the 65 DESQ items and provided a saliva sample for hormone assay. Analyses showed that the DESQ factored differently for the current sample than in previous research, highlighting how sexual desire can be constructed differently across different populations. We also found that, for the Intimacy, Eroticism, and Partner Focus factors, mean scores were higher when the desire target was a partner relative to a stranger for participants in a relationship, but equally high between partner versus stranger target for single participants. DESQ items resolved into meaningful hormonal desire components, such that high endorsement of Fantasy Experience was linked to higher T, and higher cortisol was linked with lower endorsement of the Intimacy factor. We argue that conceptualizing desire as multifaceted and contextualized when assessing hormonal links-or questions in general about desire-can clarify some of its complexities and lead to new research avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Chadwick
- Departments of Psychology & Women's Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shannon M Burke
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Sari M van Anders
- Departments of Psychology & Women's Studies; Program in Neuroscience; Reproductive Sciences Program; Science, Technology, & Society Program, University of Michigan, 530 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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22
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Goldey KL, Posh AR, Bell SN, van Anders SM. Defining Pleasure: A Focus Group Study of Solitary and Partnered Sexual Pleasure in Queer and Heterosexual Women. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2016; 45:2137-2154. [PMID: 27007471 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0704-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Solitary and partnered sexuality are typically depicted as fundamentally similar, but empirical evidence suggests they differ in important ways. We investigated how women's definitions of sexual pleasure overlapped and diverged when considering solitary versus partnered sexuality. Based on an interdisciplinary literature, we explored whether solitary pleasure would be characterized by eroticism (e.g., genital pleasure, orgasm) and partnered pleasure by nurturance (e.g., closeness). Via focus groups with a sexually diverse sample of women aged 18-64 (N = 73), we found that women defined solitary and partnered pleasure in both convergent and divergent ways that supported expectations. Autonomy was central to definitions of solitary pleasure, whereas trust, giving pleasure, and closeness were important elements of partnered pleasure. Both solitary and partnered pleasure involved exploration for self-discovery or for growing a partnered relationship. Definitions of pleasure were largely similar across age and sexual identity; however, relative to queer women, heterosexual women (especially younger heterosexual women) expressed greater ambivalence toward solitary masturbation and partnered orgasm. Results have implications for women's sexual well-being across multiple sexual identities and ages, and for understanding solitary and partnered sexuality as overlapping but distinct constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L Goldey
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, St. Edward's University, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Amanda R Posh
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sarah N Bell
- Departments of Psychology and Women's Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sari M van Anders
- Departments of Psychology and Women's Studies, Programs in Neuroscience and Reproductive Sciences, Science, Technology, and Society Program, Biosocial Methods Collaborative, University of Michigan, 530 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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