Research has found that people who are comfortable talking about their desires and experiences may be more likely to find mutual interests in bed than those who do not.
There is little research into how this dynamic plays out when it comes to sexual experimentation between partners. Some individuals might view trying new things together as an exciting way to strengthen their connection, while others might feel like it's putting their relationship in jeopardy.
Sexual behavior can be divided into three categories: exploration, maintenance, and rejection. Exploration involves seeking out new activities for pleasure and novelty; maintenance focuses on preserving existing patterns; rejection rejects all behaviors outside one's comfort zone. Studies show that some couples enjoy experimenting with BDSM, kink, threesomes, and other practices. Others prefer keeping things simple, such as massages, cuddles, or oral sex. Researchers have identified several factors influencing perceptions of sexual experimentation. These include openness to experience (OTE), communication styles, personality traits, previous exposure to non-normative sex acts, and past relationships.
People high in OTE seek out unfamiliar experiences and tend to perceive them positively. Those low in OTE avoid change and uncertainty. They may see a new activity as risky rather than rewarding. A study found that people high in OTE were less likely to consider sexually adventurous acts as destabilizing, while those low in OTE saw them as deviant. Another study discovered that men high in OTE perceived more sexual variety as beneficial than women did. Women also reported feeling more aroused by novel stimuli than men did.
Open communication is crucial for successful sexual experiences. Couples who discuss their needs, desires, and boundaries are more likely to try different things together. A survey showed that 80% of respondents felt comfortable talking about sex with partners.
Only half had done so recently. Some studies suggest that men are more vocal about their wants and needs than women are. This may lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications between them.
Personality traits can also influence how we view sexual behavior. People with higher levels of extraversion tend to be curious and enjoy seeking out thrills; introverts tend to be more reserved. Studies show that extroverted couples report higher satisfaction levels and enjoyment from trying new activities. They also feel closer to each other afterward. Agreeableness reflects kindness, empathy, and generosity towards others. It predicts a positive attitude toward non-traditional behaviors like BDSM. Conscientiousness relates to organization and planning. Individuals with this trait are more likely to plan ahead when engaging in new practices.
Previous exposure to non-normative sex acts can shape our attitudes and expectations regarding them. People who have tried bondage or fetishism before may see it as less unconventional than those who haven't. Those exposed to pornography early on tend to have more liberal beliefs about sexual behavior. A study found that people who watched hardcore pornography were more tolerant of infidelity and casual sex. Exposure to certain media has been linked to increased acceptance of same-sex relationships.
Past relationships affect how we view new ones. Couples who met online are more open to experimentation because they don't know the person's history or family. Partners who grew up together may perceive intimacy differently due to their shared experiences. Individuals who have experienced abuse or betrayal might view new partners with suspicion.
Research suggests that perceptions of sexual adventurousness depend on various factors such as OTE, communication style, personality traits, previous experience, and relationship dynamics. Understanding these factors can help couples navigate their preferences and find mutually satisfying sexual activities together. By discussing boundaries and desires, sharing information about past experiences, and exploring novel ideas, they can build stronger bonds through intimate connections.
What psychological processes influence whether partners perceive sexual experimentation as adventurous bonding or as destabilizing deviation?
Psychologists have proposed several factors that may contribute to perceptions of experimental sexual encounters as either adventurous bonding or destabilizing deviations. One key factor is the extent to which partners are open to new experiences and willing to take risks.