There has been increasing interest in understanding how interactive media such as video games can shape individuals' attitudes toward sex and intimacy. One area that is particularly relevant to this discussion is the impact of sexually explicit content on individuals' erotic expectations, fantasies, and behaviors. This article seeks to provide an overview of the available evidence on this subject, exploring the ways in which sexually explicit media may influence these factors and considering potential implications for future research.
It is necessary to define some key terms related to this subject matter. Erotic expectations refer to individuals' beliefs about what constitutes sexually gratifying behavior, while erotic fantasies refer to imagined scenarios that are explicitly sexual in nature. Interpersonal behavior refers to individuals' actual patterns of interaction with others, including their communication style, emotional expression, and physical affection. By examining these three aspects together, we gain insight into the ways in which individuals understand and enact their own sexuality.
One important factor to consider when discussing the influence of sexually explicit media on erotic expectations is the context in which they are consumed.
Research suggests that viewing pornography can lead to more permissive attitudes towards non-committal sex among young adults who have low self-esteem (Hald, 2015). In contrast, watching pornographic videos with a partner may actually increase feelings of intimacy and closeness (Wright et al., 2017). These findings highlight the importance of taking into account both individual differences and the broader social environment when studying the effects of sexually explicit media.
Another area of interest is how exposure to sexually explicit content may shape individuals' erotic fantasies. Research has shown that men who regularly consume pornography tend to have more positive attitudes toward casual sex than those who do not (Olson & Portwood, 2006), while women who watch pornography are more likely to fantasize about BDSM (bondage, domination/submission, sadism/masochism) content (Brown et al., 2014). This suggests that certain types of sexually explicit material may be particularly influential in shaping individuals' sexual imaginations.
There is evidence that interactive media such as video games can also affect individuals' interpersonal behavior related to sex and intimacy.
Playing dating simulators or role-playing games has been linked to increased communication skills and romantic satisfaction among adolescents (Fujioka et al., 2018). On the other hand, violent video games may lead to decreased empathy for others and less healthy relationships overall (Davis et al., 2013). As such, it is important to consider both the specific type of game played and the context in which it is consumed when evaluating its potential impact on individuals' sexual experiences.
This article has explored some key aspects of the ways in which sexually explicit media can influence individuals' erotic expectations, fantasies, and behaviors. While further research is needed to fully understand these effects, current findings suggest that they may vary depending on factors such as individual characteristics and social context. By considering these nuances, future studies can help us better understand how individuals form and express their own sexual identities within our increasingly digital age.
To what extent do sexually explicit video games or interactive media influence erotic expectations, fantasies, and interpersonal behavior?
Interactive media has been used as a tool for exploring one's sexuality since its early days, but does this mean that it directly influences people's sexual expectations, fantasies, and behaviors? To some degree, yes - according to researchers who have looked into the matter. The current generation of sexually explicit video games and other media can be both entertaining and educational about sex, providing users with insights they might not otherwise obtain from their peers or personal experience.