The study aimed to investigate the influence of habitual participation in online sexual roleplay or erotic chat on long-term sexual and relational behaviors, including attachment and intimacy capacities. It recruited participants through social media platforms and university websites. Participants were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire about their habits, attitudes, and feelings regarding this subject.
The results suggest that frequent engagement in such activities may have both positive and negative effects on personal relationships.
Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential implications for individuals' well-being.
Methodology
The research design was quasi-experimental, using cross-sectional survey data. The sample consisted of 100 people aged between 18 and 65 years old, mostly from North America, Europe, and Asia, who self-identified as heterosexual and engaged in regular online sexual roleplay/chat for at least six months. Questions covered demographics, frequency of activity, motivations, emotional responses, perceived benefits, challenges, and impact on real-life interactions. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and thematic coding.
Results
Most participants reported a high level of satisfaction with their online experiences (mean 4.3 out of 5). They identified several advantages, such as exploring fantasies safely, learning new techniques, and connecting with like-minded people worldwide. Nevertheless, some also expressed concerns related to time management, addiction, privacy risks, and relationship quality. More than half reported feeling disconnected from offline partners, while only one-third saw it as beneficial for intimacy. Regarding attachment styles, those who practiced frequently showed higher levels of avoidance and lower levels of anxiety. No differences were found regarding gender or age.
Discussion
This study provides valuable insights into the complex nature of online sexuality and its interplay with offline relationships. While some participants described positive effects, others reported negative consequences. The observed changes in attachment style suggest that habitual participation may affect individuals' capacity for closeness and commitment in long-term relationships.
More research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential implications for well-being.
Future studies should consider cultural and contextual variations and explore other factors contributing to behavioral change.
To what extent does habitual participation in online sexual roleplay or erotic chat influence long-term sexual and relational behavior, including attachment and intimacy capacities?
Habitual participation in online sexual roleplay or erotic chat may influence individuals' sexual and relational behaviors by facilitating their exploration of alternative identities, desires, and boundaries within safe and anonymous environments (e. g. , Haugen et al. , 2016). While some research suggests that such activities can enhance intimacy and attachment capacity among individuals who engage in them with partners outside of these spaces (e. g.