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Bockaj A, Muise MD, Belu CF, Rosen NO, O'Sullivan LF. Under Pressure: Men's and Women's Sexual Performance Anxiety in the Sexual Interactions of Adult Couples. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38848469 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2024.2357587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Most research on sexual performance anxiety has focused on men's experiences and links to erectile functioning and premature ejaculation, with little research attention given to women's experiences or to relationship dynamics. At times, sexual performance anxiety has been examined in the context of dysfunction, but rarely as a focus in its own right. Study 1 asked 51 participants reporting sexual performance anxiety to describe the cognitive and affective components of their experiences, coping strategies, and perceived impact on their relationship using open-ended responses from online surveys. Through directed content analysis, Study 1 revealed that men and women experience a range of cognitive and affective processes with predominant feelings of inadequacy, and overall promoting more approach coping strategies. Study 2 used quantitative surveys to examine whether sexual performance anxiety was associated with higher sexual distress and lower sexual and relationship satisfaction in a sample of 228 community-based couples. Guided by the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model, multilevel modeling analyses indicated that higher sexual performance anxiety was linked to higher sexual distress and lower sexual and relationship satisfaction in both individuals and their partners. This work advances knowledge of sexual performance anxiety to women's experiences, not just men's, and to couples' experiences. Effective treatment for those suffering from this anxiety may incorporate education around sexual beliefs and expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bockaj
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick
| | - Megan D Muise
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick
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2
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Gaither TW, Shahrvini T, Vincent NW, Russell MM, Litwin MS. Anorectal Sexual Function Index: Development and Validation of a Health-related Quality of Life Measure. Urology 2024; 188:87-93. [PMID: 38710453 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2024.04.040] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the reliability and validity of measuring receptive anal intercourse (RAI) sensation and associated satisfaction and bother. METHODS Between July 2022 and January 2023, we conducted a survey on sensations during RAI among people with prostates (ie, cisgender men and transgender women). The survey content was developed based on our previous qualitative study. We assessed internal reliability and consistency through time. Sensations experienced during RAI were correlated with health-related quality-of-life measures to ensure construct validity. RESULTS The final index contained four scales: pleasure (four items), pain (seven items), urinary (four items), and bowel (four items). Overall, 1084 individuals filled out the questionnaire. The internal consistency for all subscales was at or above 0.79. Scores tended to be stable across time with all test-retest coefficients at or above 0.72. Pleasure scores were inversely correlated with pain scores (r = -0.46). Pleasure was positively correlated with erections (r = 0.36) and orgasms (r = 0.44) during RAI, and sexual satisfaction (r = 0.39). Notable positive correlations for pain scores were with bowel scores (r = 0.49), internalized homophobia (r = 0.35), and prostatitis symptoms (r = 0.37). Urinary scores were moderately associated with IPSS scores (r = 0.22). Bowel scores were positively correlated with GI symptoms (r = 0.24), mental health symptoms (r = 0.28), and chronic prostatitis symptoms (r = 0.29). CONCLUSION The results of the current study provide evidence that the Anorectal Sexual Function Index is both reliable and valid. The Anorectal Sexual Function Index may be a particularly useful health-related quality-of-life measure to assess outcomes regarding a host of urologic issues that may affect RAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Gaither
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.
| | - Tara Shahrvini
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Marcia M Russell
- Department of Surgery, Section of Colorectal Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; Surgical and Perioperative Careline, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Mark S Litwin
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; School of Nursing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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3
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Spielmans GI, Ellefson EM. Small Effects, Questionable Outcomes: Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:540-561. [PMID: 36809187 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2175192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Efficacy outcomes are only informative to the extent that they are validated. We examined the measurement properties of efficacy measures from the phase III ("RECONNECT") bremelanotide trials for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women. Continuous efficacy outcomes, including a) the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and its Desire domain (FSFI-D) and b) the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Desire/Arousal/Orgasm (FSDS-DAO) and its item assessing distress due to low desire (FSDS-DAO #13) have questionable, at best, validity evidence for women with HSDD. We found no validity evidence for previously published categorical treatment response outcomes from the RECONNECT trials. All efficacy results should be reported, but results on 8 of the 11 clinicaltrials.gov-specified efficacy outcomes were heretofore unpublished (including FSDS-DAO total score, FSFI total score, FSFI arousal domain, and items from the Female Sexual Encounter Profile-Revised). We analyzed these outcomes, upon which effect sizes ranged from nil to small. Several other continuous and categorical outcomes generated modest apparent benefits, though nearly all of these outcomes were likely derived post-hoc. Across RECONNECT trial data from two prior publications and the current study, bremelanotide's benefits are statistically modest and limited to outcomes for which scant evidence of validity among women with HSDD exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen I Spielmans
- Department of Psychology, Metropolitan State University, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Elaine M Ellefson
- Department of Psychology, Metropolitan State University, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
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4
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Gewirtz-Meydan A, Sowan W, Estlein R, Winstok Z. Rights or Obligations: The Extent to Which Sexual Desire and Gender Roles Determine Sexual Intimacy in Romantic Relationships. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2024; 50:482-497. [PMID: 38323761 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2024.2310693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The present study aims to investigate the relationship between traditional gender roles and the frequency of sexual intimacy within romantic relationships, considering sexual desire and societal norms and expectations. The study was conducted among a convenience sample of men and women in Israel. The survey included measures of sociodemographic information, traditional gender roles, sexual desire, perceived partner's sexual desire, and frequency of engaging in sex. Findings suggest that men who embraced less traditional gender roles exhibit a greater synchronization between their own sexual desire and their perceived partner's sexual desire, whereas women who embraced more traditional gender roles tend to rely more on their partners' sexual desire in their frequency of sex. These results imply that men's sexual desire plays a significant role in determining the frequency of sexual activity in romantic relationships, especially in relationships where traditional gender roles are more strongly embraced. Findings from the current study underscore the idea that the decision to engage in intimate acts may not solely hinge on individual sexual desire; rather, it operates within a broader context influenced by societal and cultural expectations. It is important to challenge societal norms to promote more balanced and equitable sexual dynamics in committed relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Wafaa Sowan
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Roi Estlein
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Zeev Winstok
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel
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5
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de Oliveira L, Štulhofer A, Tafro A, Carvalho J, Nobre P. Sexual boredom and sexual desire in long-term relationships: a latent profile analysis. J Sex Med 2023; 20:14-21. [PMID: 36897242 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdac018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research suggests a general link between sexual boredom and sexual desire, but its understanding is currently very limited. AIM To identify distinct (latent) groups of women and men in long-term relationships based on their reported levels of sexual boredom and sexual desire. METHODS Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted in an online sample of 1223 Portuguese participants aged 18 and 66 years (mean ± SD, 32.75 ± 6.11), using indicators of sexual boredom and partner-related, attractive other-related, and solitary sexual desire to categorize participants. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was carried out to explore predictors and correlates of the latent profiles. OUTCOMES Sexual boredom was assessed by the Sexual Boredom Scale, while sexual desire was measured with the Sexual Desire Inventory. RESULTS As compared with women, men reported higher levels of sexual boredom and sexual desire. LPA indicated 3 profiles in women and 2 profiles in men. Among women, P1 was characterized by above-average sexual boredom, below-average partner- and attractive other-related sexual desire, and very low solitary sexual desire; P2 by below-average sexual boredom, attractive other-related sexual desire, and solitary sexual desire and above-average partner-related sexual desire; and P3 by above-average sexual boredom, attractive other-related sexual desire, and solitary sexual desire and below-average partner-related sexual desire. In men, P1 was characterized by high sexual boredom, above-average partner-related sexual desire, and high attractive other-related and solitary sexual desire and P2 by below-average sexual boredom and above-average partner-related, attractive other-related, and solitary sexual desire. The latent profiles did not differ according to relationship duration. Overall, the sole consistent correlate of the latent categorization was sexual satisfaction. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS In women, above-average levels of sexual boredom were linked to below-average levels of partner-related desire, which suggests likely benefits of helping the couple to minimize or cope better with their sexual routines. In men, participants in the 2 profiles did not differ in partner-related sexual desire, suggesting that clinical interventions dealing with male sexual boredom should investigate factors beyond the current relationship. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study explored different facets of sexual desire and used LPA, rendering advantages over previous research. The male sample has lower statistical power than the female sample. CONCLUSION Patterns of sexual boredom and sexual desire among individuals in long-term monogamous relationships are distinct and consistently related to sexual satisfaction in women and men and to relationship satisfaction among only women, which have important clinical ramifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonor de Oliveira
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Aleksandar Štulhofer
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Azra Tafro
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Joana Carvalho
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Pedro Nobre
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
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6
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McElroy EE, Perry SL, Grubbs JB. Mating in Captivity: The Influence of Social Location on Sexual Satisfaction through Phases of the COVID-19 Pandemic. SOCIUS : SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH FOR A DYNAMIC WORLD 2023; 9:23780231231173899. [PMID: 37305075 PMCID: PMC10247694 DOI: 10.1177/23780231231173899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The recent global pandemic provides a natural experiment "intervention" to examine how differing baseline social dynamics such as gender, education, and politics shaped diverging patterns of well-being during rapidly shifting societal conditions. Using married adults from a nationally representative panel study in the United States from August 2019 to August 2021, discontinuous growth curves reveal a large drop in average married sexual satisfaction in both quality and frequency directly following the pandemic onset. Moreover, sexual satisfaction remained largely suppressed for the subsequent 18 months, apart from a brief "optimism blip" in the fall of 2020. Race, age, income, employment, parenthood, education, and political affiliation all appear as meaningful predictors, but these differ across various phases of the pandemic and by gender. These results reveal evidence of lingering changes in subjective sexual well-being as well as patterns of catastrophe risk and resilience moderated by social location factors.
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Dienberg MF, Oschatz T, Kosman E, Klein V. Does Clitoral Knowledge Translate into Orgasm? The Interplay Between Clitoral Knowledge, Gendered Sexual Scripts, and Orgasm Experience. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2022:1-13. [PMID: 36411727 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2022.2147112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite some efforts to enhance clitoral knowledge to increase women's sexual pleasure, a gendered orgasm gap persists. We aimed to provide contemporary data on people's knowledge about the clitoris and investigate its association with the experience of sexual pleasure. Heterosexual participants (n = 573; 64.2% women) took a quiz on clitoral knowledge and answered sexuality-related questions. Participants answered only 50% of the nine quiz items correctly. Clitoral knowledge predicted sexual pleasure and orgasm in women, mediated via reduced endorsement of gendered sexual scripts. Our results highlight the importance of clitoral knowledge and its interplay with societal barriers for the experience of pleasure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tanja Oschatz
- Institute for Social and Legal Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Eden Kosman
- Department of Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Verena Klein
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, UK
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8
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Foust MD, Komolova M, Malinowska P, Kyono Y. Sexual Subjectivity in Solo and Partnered Masturbation Experiences Among Emerging Adult Women. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:3889-3903. [PMID: 36036871 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02390-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to examine the experiences and attitudes toward masturbation among emerging adult women. The study was the first to compare women's solo and partnered masturbation experiences, focusing on how feelings of pleasure, sexual desire, and a sense of empowerment-important markers of women's sexual subjectivity-varied across the two contexts. The sample consisted of 40 women between the ages of 18 and 22 years. The majority of participants identified as Latina (33%) or Black (30%) and were enrolled in community college. Semi-structured interviews about women's masturbation experiences were analyzed using thematic analysis. Women described a multitude of feelings, including pleasure but also awkwardness and guilt. Although women did not describe their masturbation practices as morally wrong, they often alluded to disliking masturbation and preferring it less to partnered sex. Whereas some attitudes and feelings (e.g., awkwardness) arose in the context of both solo and partnered masturbation encounters, others were prevalent only in one (e.g., guilt in the solo encounters). Feelings of pleasure, sexual desire, and empowerment manifested differently in the two contexts. There was more focus on self-knowledge, control, and physical pleasure in the solo encounters and more enjoyment of a partner's desire and intimacy in the partnered encounters. We examine the findings through a feminist lens and consider how race/ethnicity, sexual scripts, and contemporary societal contexts shape women's sexual lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica D Foust
- Social Sciences, Human Services & Criminal Justice Department, Borough of Manhattan Community College at the City University of New York, 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY, 10007, USA.
| | - Masha Komolova
- Social Sciences, Human Services & Criminal Justice Department, Borough of Manhattan Community College at the City University of New York, 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY, 10007, USA
| | - Paulina Malinowska
- Social Sciences, Human Services & Criminal Justice Department, Borough of Manhattan Community College at the City University of New York, 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY, 10007, USA
- The New York Mental Health Group, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yuriko Kyono
- Social Sciences, Human Services & Criminal Justice Department, Borough of Manhattan Community College at the City University of New York, 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY, 10007, USA
- The School of Education, Hunter College at the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
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9
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Scappini A, Fioravanti G. Gender Scripts and Female Sexual Functioning: The Role of Sexual Pressure and Sexual Subjectivity. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:1110-1121. [PMID: 35200076 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2042477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Building upon previous research that has already established a negative association between gender scripts' endorsement and female sexual functioning, the present study tested a model that explains how gender scripts' endorsement may affect female sexual functioning through perceived sexual pressure, compliance with unwanted sex, and sexual subjectivity. A community sample of 390 women (mean age = 23.98 ± 4 years; age range: 18-35 years) completed measures of gender scripts' endorsement, sexual pressure, sexual subjectivity, sexual functioning, depression, and anxiety. The assessed structural model produced an adequate fit to the data (χ2 = 41.93, df = 14, p = .0002; χ2/df = 2.99; RMSEA [90%CI] = .07 [.05-.08]; CFI = .95; SRMR = .05). Variables accounted for 42% of the variance in sexual functioning levels. We found evidence for two paths linking gender scripts' endorsement to sexual functioning: in the first path the association was mediated by the level of sexual subjectivity; in the second path the association was mediated by perceived sexual pressure and by the frequency of compliance with unwanted sex. The present study represents a step toward a better understanding of the socio-cultural and psychological mechanisms underlying the link between gender scripts and female sexual functioning; theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Scappini
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence
| | - Giulia Fioravanti
- Department of Health Sciences, Psychology Unit, University of Florence
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10
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Meehan C. Young people's perceptions of young women's engagement in sexting. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:1395-1407. [PMID: 34506256 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1956594] [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] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Young women are increasingly engaging with digital sexual media, yet discussion of female desire remains absent or is vilified. This paper examines young women's online sexual expression, as seen through the eyes of both young men and young women. Based on small friendship group interviews conducted with 106 12-16-year-old young women and men in Aotearoa New Zealand, I analysed perceptions of young women's sexual expression. Framed through patriarchal ideals and underpinned by competitive masculinity, young women's sexuality and opportunities for sexual expression were policed and regulated. Young women were expected to be passive yet digitally heterosexy, but not slutty. Perceptions of young women's sexual expression continue to be framed within silencing and absent pleasure discourses, which ultimately compromises both young men and women's development of sexual subjectivities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Meehan
- Sociology and Criminology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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11
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Conley TD, Klein V. Women Get Worse Sex: A Confound in the Explanation of Gender Differences in Sexuality. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2022; 17:960-978. [PMID: 35171743 DOI: 10.1177/17456916211041598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Gender differences in sexuality have gained considerable attention both within and outside of the scientific community. We argue that one of the main unacknowledged reasons for these differences is simply that women experience substantially worse sex than men do. Thus, in examinations of the etiology of gender differences in sexuality, a confound has largely been unacknowledged: Women and men are treated to different experiences of what is called "sexuality" and "having sex." We discuss four arenas in which women's experience of sexuality may often be worse than men's: (a) anatomical differences, (b) sexual violence, (c) stigma, and (d) masculine cultures of sexuality. Then we consider how each disparity might explain well-known gender differences in sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Verena Klein
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan
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12
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de Oliveira L, Rosa P, Carvalho J, Nobre P. A Cluster Analysis on Sexual Boredom Profiles in A Community Sample of Men and Women. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:258-268. [PMID: 34114914 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1931798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research evidence of the attributes of sexual boredom is extremely limited. Understanding variability in the experience of sexual boredom may offer relevant insights for the field of human sexuality. This study aimed to explore the co-occurrence of sexual boredom and other sexuality-related dimensions. The sample consisted of 1021 participants aged between 18 and 75 years old (M = 32.68, SD = 8.79). A gender-stratified cluster analysis was performed to classify individuals regarding their scores on sexual boredom, general boredom, sexual sensation seeking, sexual desire, sexual excitation, sexual pleasure, and sexual satisfaction. A three-cluster solution was revealed for both men and women. Based on our findings, we put forward a profile for the sexually bored individual, who is more likely to be married or cohabiting with a partner, to have a boredom prone personality, to lack sexual sensation seeking, experience low sexual pleasure and satisfaction, and to present with sexual arousal and/or desire problems. Women dealing with sexual boredom might present low sexual desire for their partner but experience high sex desire for attractive others. Results are critically discussed and implications for sexual therapy explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonor de Oliveira
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto
| | - Pedro Rosa
- Digital Human-Environment Interaction Lab (HEI-lab), Lusófona University of Humanities and Technologies
- Center for Social Research and Intervention (CIS-IUL), ISCTE University Institute of Lisbon
| | - Joana Carvalho
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto
| | - Pedro Nobre
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto
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13
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Papp LJ, Ward LM, Marshall RA. Contributions of Reality TV Consumption to College Women’s Endorsement of the Heterosexual Script and Acceptance of Sexualized Aggression. PSYCHOLOGY OF WOMEN QUARTERLY 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/03616843211044686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A prominent feature of mainstream television, especially reality programming, is a heterosexual script that outlines women’s and men’s traditional courtship roles. Although frequent media use is believed to produce greater acceptance of this script, existing analyses have not fully delineated contributions of scripted versus reality programming or tested these notions using a holistic heterosexual script scale. We addressed these limitations in two studies. In Study 1, 466 undergraduate women indicated their support of the heterosexual script and their consumption of popular reality programs, sitcoms, and dramas. Heavier viewing of reality programming predicted greater support for the heterosexual script, and heavier viewing of sitcoms predicted weaker support. In Study 2, we used longitudinal data to explore relations between viewing reality television, acceptance of the heterosexual script, and acceptance of sexualized aggression during undergraduate women’s first 2 years in college ( N = 244). We found that reality television consumption was not a direct predictor of acceptance of sexualized aggression but was a significant, indirect predictor through endorsement of the heterosexual script. These studies contribute to our understanding of unique media contributions to endorsement of the heterosexual script and illuminate one process by which women may come to normalize sexual mistreatment. Campus educational programming on sexuality, sexual assault, and healthy relationships may be able to intervene in this normalization through critique of the heterosexual script and media portrayals of dating and relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanna J. Papp
- Departments of Psychology and Women’s Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - L. Monique Ward
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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14
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González-Mesa E, Moya-Bejarano D, Butrón-Hinojo CA, Marín-Sánchez P, Blasco-Alonso M, Jimenez-López JS, Villegas-Muñoz E, Lubián-López DM. Correlates of Sexual Function in a Sample of Spanish Women with Endometriosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4957. [PMID: 34768476 PMCID: PMC8584302 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the present study, we aim to report on the sexual function of women experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, analysing the clinical and psychosocial factors that may be associated. METHODS A multicentre cross-sectional study was performed to analyse the sexual function in a sample of 196 Spanish women with endometriosis, using the Female Sexual Function Inventory. RESULTS The Female Sexual Function Inventory (FSFI) was validated in our endometriosis study group. The mean FSFI score for the sample was 22.5 (SD 6.6), with 20.9 and 26.9 being in the 25th and 75th percentiles, respectively. Although physical sexual pain and dyspareunia were factors that influenced the sexual function of women with endometriosis, our results show that the impairment was multifactorial. CONCLUSIONS We found impaired sexual function in women diagnosed with endometriosis. The final model included deep endometriosis, depression, age, and unemployment as strongest predictive factors for poor (deteriorated) sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto González-Mesa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Malaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, 29011 Málaga, Spain; (M.B.-A.); (J.S.J.-L.); (E.V.-M.)
| | - Davinia Moya-Bejarano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, 29011 Málaga, Spain; (M.B.-A.); (J.S.J.-L.); (E.V.-M.)
| | | | - Pilar Marín-Sánchez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Marta Blasco-Alonso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, 29011 Málaga, Spain; (M.B.-A.); (J.S.J.-L.); (E.V.-M.)
| | - Jesús Salvador Jimenez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, 29011 Málaga, Spain; (M.B.-A.); (J.S.J.-L.); (E.V.-M.)
| | - Emilia Villegas-Muñoz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, 29011 Málaga, Spain; (M.B.-A.); (J.S.J.-L.); (E.V.-M.)
| | - Daniel María Lubián-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Jerez de la Frontera, 11407 Cádiz, Spain;
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Laan ETM, Klein V, Werner MA, van Lunsen RHW, Janssen E. In Pursuit of Pleasure: A Biopsychosocial Perspective on Sexual Pleasure and Gender. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:516-536. [PMID: 38595780 PMCID: PMC10903695 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1965689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Various sources of evidence suggest that men and women differ in their experience of sexual pleasure. Such gender differences have been attributed to men's higher innate sex drive, supported by evolutionary psychology perspectives and gender differences in reproductive strategies. Method: This paper presents biopsychosocial evidence for gender similarities in the capacity to experience pleasure, and for substantial gender differences in opportunities for sexual pleasure. Results: We conclude that sexual activity, in most cultures, is less pleasurable and associated with greater cost for heterosexual women than for heterosexual men, even though they do not differ in the capacity for sexual pleasure. Conclusion: Since gender differences in experienced sexual pleasure are not a biological given, a more critical discourse of sexual pleasure might create awareness of current inequalities, help lift restrictions for women's opportunities for pleasure, and could reduce gender differences in the cost of sex. That would truly serve sexual justice around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen T. M. Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Verena Klein
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marlene A. Werner
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rik H. W. van Lunsen
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erick Janssen
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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16
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Fava NM, Fortenberry JD. Trauma-Informed Sex Positive Approaches to Sexual Pleasure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:537-549. [PMID: 38595781 PMCID: PMC10903666 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1961965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
This paper develops a trauma-informed sex-positive framework as a public health, clinical, and research approach to sexual experience over the life course. The framework centers trauma-informed sex positivity as the linkage for sexual pleasure (along with sexual wellbeing and sexual health) to the social, cultural, and legal concepts of sexual justice. By providing a conceptual distinction of sexual pleasure from sexual wellbeing and sexual health, the framework improves clarity about how these constructs are related as well as provides possibilities for detailed operationalization in public health surveillance and in the new research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M. Fava
- Center for Children and Families, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL
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17
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Prabowo KA, Ellenzy G, Wijaya MC, Kloping YP. Impact of Work from Home Policy during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health and Reproductive Health of Women in Indonesia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 34:17-26. [PMID: 38595683 PMCID: PMC10903704 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1928808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of work from home (WFH) during the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and reproductive health of women in Indonesia. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the impact of WFH policy on said health aspects in Indonesia. Methods: We conducted an observational study with a cross-sectional approach using an online survey among premenopausal married women in Indonesia. The survey included the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) for psychological distress, average sexual intercourse frequency (SIF) per week, contraception use, change of menstrual pattern, and desire for having children. To analyze the effect of WFH, the participants were divided into groups based on their WFH compliance: (1) Both couples (her and her spouse) work from home, (2) Only the wife works from home, (3) Only the husband works from home, and (4) Neither works from home. Results: 348 women were included in this study. Psychological distress occurred in 48.0% (n = 167) participants. No significant difference was found between the WFH groups (χ2[3, N = 348] = 2.077, p = .56)). The average weekly SIF was found to be significantly fewer during WFH (T = 5014, z = -5.598, p < .001). However, only 22.7% (n = 79) participants reported the use of contraception and 52.9% (n = 196) participants still wanted to have children. Change of menstrual pattern occurred in 31.6% (n = 110) participants and were significantly correlated to psychological distress (rs= .126, p = .018). Conclusions: WFH does not aggravate the effect of the pandemic on women's mental and reproductive health in Indonesia. A significant number of them still desire to have children and contraceptive prevalence is low.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriela Ellenzy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Maria C. Wijaya
- Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Bőthe B, Potenza MN, Griffiths MD, Kraus SW, Klein V, Fuss J, Demetrovics Z. The development of the Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder Scale (CSBD-19): An ICD-11 based screening measure across three languages. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:247-258. [PMID: 32609629 PMCID: PMC8939427 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) is included in the eleventh edition of The International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as an impulse-control disorder. AIMS The aim of the present work was to develop a scale (Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder Scale-CSBD-19) that can reliably and validly assess CSBD based on ICD-11 diagnostic guidelines. METHOD Four independent samples of 9,325 individuals completed self-reported measures from three countries (the United States, Hungary, and Germany). The psychometric properties of the CSBD-19 were examined in terms of factor structure, reliability, measurement invariance, and theoretically relevant correlates. A potential threshold was determined to identify individuals with an elevated risk of CSBD. RESULTS The five-factor model of the CSBD-19 (i.e., control, salience, relapse, dissatisfaction, and negative consequences) had an excellent fit to the data and demonstrated appropriate associations with the correlates. Measurement invariance suggested that the CSBD-19 functions similarly across languages. Men had higher means than women. A score of 50 points was found as an optimal threshold to identify individuals at high-risk of CSBD. CONCLUSIONS The CSBD-19 is a short, valid, and reliable measure of potential CSBD based on ICD-11 diagnostic guidelines. Its use in large-scale, cross-cultural studies may promote the identification and understanding of individuals with a high risk of CSBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beáta Bőthe
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary,Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada,Corresponding author. Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada E-mail: . Tel.: +1 438 833 3038
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA,Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- Psychology Department, International Gaming Research Unit, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Shane W. Kraus
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Verena Klein
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Fuss
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Zsolt Demetrovics
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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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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