Sexual Fantasies are defined as intense desires that people have when they think about sexual activity or activities which can be imagined. They may vary from person to person according to their preferences and experiences. Extradyadic encounters refer to sexual acts between partners outside the marital relationship or committed relationship. Research has shown that such experiences may enhance the quality of life and help individuals explore themselves better. On the other hand, there is also some literature that shows an inverse association between relational satisfaction and extradyadic encounters.
Many researchers believe that sexual fantasies do not affect relational satisfaction, trust, and emotional intimacy at all. This article provides an insight into the existing evidence regarding this issue to understand how sexual fantasies influence these aspects of relationships.
The study conducted by Jensen et al., (2018) examines the effects of sexual fantasy and extradyadic encounters on women's feelings of relationship satisfaction, trust, and emotional closeness. The researchers found that sexual fantasies have no effect on relational satisfaction. While one group was exposed to sexual content in the form of erotic stories, another group was asked to imagine a partner kissing someone else. Both groups reported similar levels of relational satisfaction. Similarly, the presence of sexual desire did not affect relational trust or emotional closeness. The authors suggest that sexual fantasies might offer a temporary escape from everyday stressors but are insufficient for enhancing long-term relationships.
Another study by Sprecher & Felmlee (2009), investigated the associations between sexual satisfaction and infidelity with relationship satisfaction and commitment. They hypothesized that people who engage in extramarital sex would report lower satisfaction than those who do not. Results indicated that men who had experienced infidelity were less satisfied with their partnership than those who had not. Women, however, did not report any significant difference in relationship satisfaction based on their experiences with infidelity.
Individuals who had engaged in extramarital sex but still committed themselves to their primary partner felt more emotionally secure compared to those who hadn't. These findings imply that sexual fantasies may not necessarily be linked to relational outcomes unless they are acted upon.
Other research has suggested that extradyadic encounters can improve the quality of existing relationships.
Dillon et al., (2013) conducted a study where participants were shown erotic images and then asked to rate their feelings toward their current partner. Participants who viewed erotic material reported higher levels of arousal and attraction towards their partner than those who did not view the same content. Thus, it is possible that such activities may enhance intimacy and attachment within established relationships.
Some studies have found evidence supporting the idea that sexual fantasies can actually boost emotional closeness and trust. A study by O'Sullivan et al., (2007) showed that couples who discuss their sexual desires openly tend to have stronger bonds than those who don't. Couples who share their secret desires and fantasies also appear to be more satisfied with their relationship and are likely to stay together for longer periods. They concluded that sexual exploration promotes interpersonal communication, which leads to greater understanding and acceptance between partners. Therefore, sharing sexual fantasies may lead to enhanced emotional intimacy and increased trust.
These results suggest that while sexual fantasies do not seem to directly impact relational satisfaction, trust, or emotional intimacy, they might indirectly affect them in certain ways. The discussion of sexual desire between partners can increase mutual understanding and improve emotional bonding.
Engaging in extramarital sex may harm the relationship if it compromises its integrity. Hence, it is essential to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy forms of sexual expression to maintain a strong and fulfilling relationship.
How do sexual fantasies about extradyadic encounters relate to relational satisfaction, trust, and emotional intimacy?
Sexual fantasies involving people outside of one's primary relationship can be a complex phenomenon that is influenced by various factors, including culture, personal history, and individual characteristics. While some individuals may view such fantasies as a way to spice up their current relationship, others may see them as an indicator of underlying dissatisfaction or even infidelity.