Sexual encounters that involve at least one partner who remains unknown to the others can be described as "anonymous", "casual" or "one night stands". While these terms might seem synonymous at first glance, they are different from each other. Anonymous sexual partners refer to individuals who have no prior knowledge about their partner's identity while casual refers to short-term, non-committal interactions between people who do not intend to establish long-term relationships. One night stands occur when two or more persons agree to engage in sexual activity for the sole purpose of pleasure without any intention of continuing relations. These forms of sexual engagements may affect autonomy, agency, and relational negotiation practices differently.
Autonomy is defined as an individual's ability to act independently, make decisions freely, and exercise control over his/her life. In the context of sexuality, it means having control over one's own body, emotions, desires, choices, and actions. Individuals who engage in anonymous sexual activities tend to experience less interference from social norms or expectations compared to those who enter into committed relationships. The former group does not need to worry about public perceptions, societal judgement, family or peer opinions, and religious beliefs while choosing a partner or making a decision regarding sex. On the contrary, individuals involved in one night stands and casual encounters may find themselves under pressure due to the fear of being caught by society if they violate cultural norms. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, embarrassment, and stigma, which may ultimately limit their autonomy in both the sexual and social spheres.
Agency describes the capacity to take action towards achieving goals or objectives. Sexual autonomy enables people to explore their bodies, sexualities, fantasies, and needs without restrictions, whereas casual partnerships or one night stands allow them to assert control over their actions. Engaging with strangers involves taking risks that might involve physical or emotional dangers, leading some individuals to feel vulnerable. Still, others enjoy the thrill of exploring new experiences without any restrictions on boundaries or limits.
This freedom also comes at the cost of losing control over emotions or developing strong attachments.
Relational negotiation practices refer to the way individuals communicate and negotiate their boundaries, needs, wants, desires, and values in intimate interactions. Anonymous sexual encounters involve no pre-existing relationship, so there is little room for negotiation except when it comes to consent and safety protocols. Casual partnerships and one night stands are more likely to have explicit conversations about what each person wants before engaging in sexual activity. Such discussions help establish mutually satisfying relationships based on trust, respect, and communication. People who engage in casual sexual encounters tend to be honest about their preferences and expectations from the beginning, thereby avoiding confusion later.
Anonymous sexual engagements offer greater sexual autonomy compared to other forms of sexuality but come with a higher risk of being judged by society. One night stands allow for limited emotional investment while casual partnerships require openness about needs and desires, but do not provide total autonomy. Both types of relationships may affect relational negotiation practices differently depending on the level of commitment involved.
To what extent does engagement with anonymous sexual partners affect autonomy, agency, and relational negotiation practices?
Engaging with anonymous sexual partners may have both positive and negative effects on autonomy, agency, and relational negotiation practices. On one hand, it can provide opportunities for exploration of different identities and desires that might not be available in more conventional relationships. This can lead to increased self-awareness and autonomy in terms of personal identity formation and decision-making.