Muise A, Kovacevic K, Shoikhedbrod A, Uppot A. The benefits (and costs) of sexual responsiveness in romantic relationships.
Curr Opin Psychol 2023;
52:101644. [PMID:
37423039 DOI:
10.1016/j.copsyc.2023.101644]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Sex is one unique way people can show responsiveness in romantic relationships. Being and having a sexually responsive partner-who is understanding and motivated to make sexual compromises-is associated with sexual desire maintenance, sexual satisfaction, and relationship quality, especially when partners have different sexual interests or are coping with sexual issues. But, if being responsive to a partner's sexual needs involves self-neglect, sexual responsiveness no longer has these benefits and can be costly. Future research on sexual responsiveness should involve the development of a comprehensive measure incorporating lay perceptions and considering gendered sexual expectations, and an investigation of the balance between sexual autonomy and responsiveness in relationships.
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