Sexual attraction is an integral part of any romantic relationship. It is the key factor that brings couples together initially and keeps them together for a longer duration. But there are several factors that can get in the way of maintaining healthy and satisfying sexual intimacy over time. One such factor is the presence of previously unacceptable sexual interests which were considered taboo in society. These include kinks, fetishes, and non-traditional forms of erotica like BDSM, roleplaying, and bondage. In this article, I will discuss how these previously taboo sexual interests affect relationship intimacy over time.
Previously Taboo Sexual Interests
Previously taboo sexual interests refer to those activities or desires that are frowned upon or looked down upon by society as immoral or shameful. They have been widely rejected and condemned throughout history and continue to be so today. Some examples of these interests include but are not limited to BDSM, roleplaying, fetishism, and more. These interests often involve acts that are seen as deviant, aggressive, violent, or degrading.
BDSM includes bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadomasochism. Roleplaying involves taking on different roles during sex play and acting out fantasies with partners. Fetishism is when someone has a strong desire or obsession with certain objects, parts of the body, or actions during sex.
Impact on Relationship Intimacy
The impact of previously taboo sexual interests on relationship intimacy varies from one couple to another.
Some common effects include:
* Lack of trust - Couples may feel hesitant about sharing their true sexual interests due to fear of judgment, rejection, or embarrassment. This can lead to a lack of communication and trust between them.
* Emotional distance - Couples may feel ashamed of their sexual interests, leading to emotional distance and avoidance of intimacy. They may also feel isolated and alone in their feelings.
* Incompatibility - If one partner's interest is too far outside the other partner's comfort zone, it can lead to incompatibility in the long run. The couple may find it difficult to maintain a healthy sexual relationship.
* Difficulty exploring - Couples may have difficulty exploring their sexuality fully if they have to keep their taboo interests hidden. This can lead to frustration and resentment over time.
* Low satisfaction - Without addressing these interests, couples may not be able to satisfy each other sexually, which can lead to low satisfaction levels in the relationship.
* Pressure to conform - Society's expectations and norms can put pressure on individuals to conform and hide their sexual desires, creating tension within the relationship.
Overcoming Challenges
To overcome these challenges, couples must communicate openly and honestly with each other about their sexual interests. They should create a safe space where they can share without judgement or shame. It is important to understand that everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to sexual intimacy. Communication and compromise are key to making any relationship work, including those involving previously taboo sexual interests. Here are some ways to do so:
1. Talk about your interests - Share your sexual interests openly with your partner, even if they seem taboo. Be willing to listen to their views without judgment. Ask for feedback and guidance on how to make things work better.
2. Agree on boundaries - Set clear rules and boundaries for what is acceptable and unacceptable in your sexual relationship. Establish ground rules and talk about what you will and won't tolerate.
3. Explore together - Find ways to explore your interests safely and consensually with your partner. Try roleplaying, BDSM, or fetishism under supervision from an experienced professional.
4. Seek support - Consider seeking therapy or counseling if needed to address underlying issues related to your sexuality. This can help couples navigate complex emotions and feelings surrounding these topics.
5. Prioritize communication - Always prioritize communication and honesty in your relationship. Encourage your partner to be vulnerable and express themselves fully. Work towards finding common ground and understanding each other better.
Previously taboo sexual interests can have significant effects on relationship intimacy over time. Couples need to communicate openly, honestly, and safely about their desires to maintain healthy and satisfying relationships. They should also seek support and guidance when necessary to overcome challenges and establish a safe space where they can explore their sexuality freely. With proper communication and mutual respect, any couple can find a way to meet their needs while being true to who they are.
How do previously taboo sexual interests affect relationship intimacy over time?
Previously taboo sexual interests are those that were not accepted as part of mainstream society's definition of what is "normal" for human sexuality. These include kinks such as BDSM (bondage/discipline/dominance/submission/masochism), group sex, polyamory, fetishes, exhibitionism, and voyeurism, among others.