Temperament differences are often cited as one of the primary sources of sexual dissatisfaction between romantic partners. In this essay, I will explore how these differences can affect the frequency and intensity of sexual desires, as well as the ability to resolve conflicts related to them.
The first aspect of temperament that influences sexual desire is personality type. Those who identify as extroverted tend to be more likely to initiate sex and engage in it for longer periods of time than those who are introverted. This is due to their higher levels of energy, assertiveness, and social confidence. Introverts may feel uncomfortable with being the ones to take charge or expressing their needs, which can lead to lower satisfaction rates overall.
They may have difficulty communicating effectively about what they need from a partner during sex, resulting in frustration and misunderstandings.
Another factor that influences sexual desire is attachment style. People who are securely attached tend to be more open to intimacy and vulnerability, which allows them to share more freely with their partner. They also have an easier time trusting each other enough to allow themselves to relax and enjoy the experience fully.
Those who are anxious or avoidant in relationships may struggle with feeling comfortable and confident enough to truly let go and embrace their sexuality. This can result in reduced arousal and difficulty reaching climax.
Sexual desire is further influenced by emotional intelligence and communication skills. Individuals who are better at reading and responding to non-verbal cues are more successful at getting their partners aroused and keeping the mood going throughout the encounter. They are also more effective at resolving conflicts when they arise, such as disagreements over frequency, positions, or duration. Conversely, individuals with poor EI skills may not recognize when their partner is not enjoying themselves and may become impatient or even aggressive if rebuffed.
Temperament differences affect how easily couples resolve sexual conflict. Those who are highly agreeable tend to be more willing to compromise and find solutions that work for both parties. On the other hand, those who are less agreeable may be more rigid and inflexible, leading to stalemates and resentment. These individuals may also be more likely to use passive-aggressive tactics, such as stonewalling or silent treatment, to express their dissatisfaction.
It is important for couples to understand each other's personality types and adjust their approach accordingly in order to maintain a healthy sex life.
Understanding one's own temperament and that of their partner is crucial for predicting sexual satisfaction and resolving any potential conflicts. By recognizing these differences and working together to find common ground, couples can enjoy a fulfilling and intimate relationship.
How do temperament differences predict the expression of sexual desire and relational conflict resolution?
The study by Arias et al. (2018) explored whether there is a relationship between temperamental dimensions of openness to experience, agreeableness, conscientiousness, extraversion, neuroticism, and intimacy styles on the one hand and sexual desire and relational conflict resolution strategies on the other.