Age and gender differences in sexual behavior preferences: a follow-up report

This study extends prior research on gender differences in sexual behavior preferences. The authors administered the 6-factors Inventory of Dyadic Heterosexual Preferences (IDHP)1 to 76 married or cohabiting couples (mean age = 35 years). Their preference patterns were compared to similar data obtained previously from younger (mean age = 21 years), single respondents. Gender differences that were replicated included women's stronger preferences for romantic foreplay and men's greater erotophilia and preferences for using erotica and combining alcohol and drug use with sex. Women's stronger conventionality was not replicated among older partners, both of whom were less conventional than their younger counterparts. Older men and women were also more inclined toward the use of erotica. Unlike younger men, older men were more negative toward the use of contraception. Implications for sexual safety, adjustment, communication, and therapy are discussed.