Do sexual rituals have measurable psychological benefits in sustaining relational passion?
Sexual rituals are a set of behaviors that people perform before, during, or after sexual intercourse to increase feelings of passion and desire for each other. While they may vary from couple to couple, common examples include kissing, hugging, holding hands, massage, cuddling, and talking about fantasies. Some researchers believe these actions can have positive effects on one's relationship.
One study found that couples who engaged in pre-sexual rituals reported higher levels of satisfaction than those who did not. The study involved nearly 100 heterosexual couples who completed questionnaires assessing their experiences. The results showed that partners who engaged in at least three different types of pre-sexual rituals had significantly greater physical and emotional intimacy than those who did not. This suggests that engaging in pre-sexual rituals can help maintain feelings of passion and connection in relationships.
Another study explored the effects of post-coital behavior on long-term romantic relationships. The study involved more than 200 participants in committed relationships who were asked to rate how often they engaged in post-coital activities such as cuddling, talking, or expressing affection. Results indicated that individuals who engaged in more post-coital activities reported greater levels of passionate love and commitment towards their partner compared to those who did not.
There is limited evidence to support the use of sexual rituals in sustaining relational passion over time. A meta-analysis of existing studies found that while some individuals may benefit from them, others do not.
It is unclear whether the benefits last beyond short periods of time. More research is needed to understand the full scope of this topic.
While sexual rituals may have psychological benefits for some couples, further investigation is required to determine their effectiveness in sustaining relational passion over time.
Engaging in these behaviors before, during, and after sex may provide a sense of safety and security, which could contribute to increased feelings of closeness and attraction.
Do sexual rituals have measurable psychological benefits in sustaining relational passion?
The scientific literature on the effects of sexual rituals on relational passion is limited but promising. Research suggests that engaging in regular sexual routines may increase feelings of closeness and intimacy within relationships by creating a sense of familiarity and predictability (Chivers et al. , 2018). Sexual rituals can also enhance communication between partners, which can lead to greater understanding and empathy (Fisher & Aron, 1996).