Balanced Motivations for Sex: Impact on Satisfaction, Desire, and Relationship Dynamics Post Birth

Post-Baby Hanky Panky: Decoding the Link between Motivations for Sex, Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction, and Sexual Desire

Couples Sexual Health Lab

April 15, 2024

By Malia Artibello

In this blog, we delve into our published article examining the intricate connections between motivations for engaging in sexual activity, levels of satisfaction within romantic relationships, and the desire for intimacy. The study was led by Shoikhedbrod, A., with co-authors including Rosen, N.O., Corsini-Munt, S., Harasymchuk, C., Impett, E.A., Muise, A., published in The Journal of Sex Research, volume 60 issue 8, pages 1113-1125. You can find the original research at this linkhttps:doi.org10.108000224499.2022.2130132.

Photo by Yan Krukau on Pexels

What was the objective?

Our study med to uncover whether individuals with higher sexual communal strength, characterized by a balance between atting to their own and their partner's sexual needs, exhibit more autonomous reasons for engaging in sex compared to those who prioritize their partner’s needs above their own referred to as unmitigated sexual communion. We further explored how these motivations impact relationship satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, and the desire for intimacy.

How was it conducted?

To achieve our research goals, we implemented two study designs:

1. Study 1: A cross-sectional survey involving 103 couples 206 participants collected responses at a single time-point.

   • Each participant indepently completed surveys to assess their sexual motivations, satisfaction levels across various aspects of the relationship and sexuality, as well as desire for intimacy.

2. Longitudinal Study Study 2: This phase involved tracking changes over time with repeated assessments:

   • The longitudinal study followed participants with multiple assessments across several periods to capture dynamic fluctuations in their relationships and sexual experiences.

What did we find?

The findings revealed a nuanced relationship between motivation, satisfaction, and desire within romantic partnerships post-birth. Individuals with balanced motivations towards sex demonstrated higher levels of autonomy and controlled decision-making regarding intimate activities compared to those who primarily focused on meeting their partner's needs.

1. Autonomous Reasons for Sex: These individuals showed increased psychological well-being related to intimacy, suggesting that prioritizing mutual desires enhances satisfaction within the relationship.

2. Relationship Satisfaction: Partners with a balanced approach towards sexual engagements experienced more stable and harmonious relationships, indicating that understanding and considering both parties' needs fosters long-term connection.

3. Desire for Intimacy: This was found to be more consistent among individuals who practice autonomous decision-making in their sexual activities compared to those with unmitigated focus on partner's desires.

The research underscores the importance of fostering a balanced approach towards intimacy post-birth, where partners are encouraged to communicate openly and consider each other's needs. It highlights how these dynamics can significantly impact the overall quality of relationships and satisfaction levels.

Photo by Isabelle Delisle

Citations for Further Reading

1. K. P. Mark S. H. Murray 2012. Ger differences in desire discrepancy as a predictor of sexual and relationship satisfaction in a college sample of heterosexual romantic relationships. Journal of Sex Marital Therapy, 382, 198–215.

2. A. Muise E.A. Impett 2016. Applying theories of communal motivation to sexuality. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 108, 455–467.

3. E.E. Gravel, E.D. Reissing L.G. Pelletier 2020. The ebb and flow of sexual well-being: The contributions of basic psychological needs and autonomous and controlled sexual motivation to dly variations in sexual well-being. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 377, 2286–2306.

For those interested in diving deeper into the nuances of sexual health and intimate relationships, our lab offers a wealth of resources, including:

• Dr. Natalie Rosen's Practice

• Publications from leading researchers

• Community partnerships fostering knowledge exchange

Photo by Dr. Isabelle Delisle

Feel free to explore these links for more insights into the dynamic landscape of sexual health and interpersonal dynamics post-birth.

For inquiries, volunteer opportunities, or further collaboration, please don't hesitate to reach out through our contact page at our websiteINSERT_LINK_HERE. Your input can greatly contribute to our ongoing efforts in enhancing sexual health awareness and research.
This article is reproduced from: https://natalieorosen.com/sexualmotivation-sexualandrelationshipsatisfaction-desire/

Please indicate when reprinting from: https://www.812o.com/Women_of_both_sexes/Sexual_Dynamics_Post_Birth.html