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Desire discrepancy in long-term relationships: A qualitative study with diverse couples
Katherine Arenella1, Abby Girard2,3, Jennifer Connor2,3
1California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University - Los Angeles, Alhambra, California, USA.
Family Process
|January 18, 2024
Summary
This study explored distressing sexual desire discrepancy in long-term heterosexual and queer couples. Findings reveal key themes in relationship satisfaction, sexual changes, and coping strategies for couples experiencing desire differences.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Human Sexuality
Background:
- Sexual desire discrepancy is a common issue in couples' sexual health.
- Research gaps exist regarding desire discrepancy in distressed and queer couples.
- Qualitative data is needed to understand long-term couples' experiences with distressing desire discrepancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gather qualitative data on long-term couples' experiences with distressing sexual desire discrepancy.
- To explore these experiences in both heterosexual and queer couples.
- To inform clinical interventions and future research.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with heterosexual and queer partners (n=26).
- Interviews included both couple and individual sessions.
- Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data.
Main Results:
- Four primary themes emerged: sexual and relationship satisfaction, changes in sexual frequency/desire/behavior, changes in barriers to sex, and coping with desire discrepancy.
- These themes provide insight into the multifaceted nature of desire discrepancy in relationships.
- The findings highlight the importance of understanding individual and relational dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Understanding sexual desire discrepancy is crucial for couples' sexual health.
- Findings can guide the development of targeted clinical interventions.
- Further research is needed to address desire discrepancy in diverse couple populations.
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