Sexual attraction is a powerful force that shapes many aspects of human behavior, including perceptions of fairness, commitment, and equality in romantic relationships. When people are attracted to someone else, they may be more likely to view them favorably and give them special treatment, even if it isn't necessarily deserved. This can lead to problems down the road when it comes time to negotiate relationship goals or settle disputes. In this article, we will explore how sexual attraction impacts our perceptions of equity, commitment, and partnership fairness, and what steps individuals can take to mitigate these effects.
Equity
When people feel strongly attracted to someone, they may have an innate desire to make sure that person feels good about themselves and their role in the relationship.
If one partner is attractive while the other is not, there may be pressure on the less attractive partner to compensate for their perceived lack of appeal by doing extra chores or providing financial support. This can create feelings of resentment and discontentment, as one partner may feel like they are being taken advantage of.
If one partner is always expected to do all the work, it can create an imbalance of power within the relationship, which can ultimately lead to its demise.
Commitment
People who experience strong sexual attraction may also find it difficult to break up with their partner, even if things aren't going well. They may believe that the physical aspect of their relationship outweighs any negative aspects, and choose to stay together despite disagreements or issues. This can lead to a sense of stagnation and stifling of personal growth, as each person begins to view themselves through the lens of their partner's opinions rather than their own independent thoughts and desires. It can also make it harder to leave a bad relationship, as breaking off the physical connection often involves more emotional baggage than just ending the companionship.
Fairness
When we are sexually attracted to someone, we may be more likely to give them special treatment compared to other partners or potential mates. We may excuse their flaws or overlook their mistakes, making it easier for them to get away with things that would be unacceptable in other relationships. This can lead to a lack of accountability within the relationship, where both parties feel like they don't need to hold themselves or each other accountable for poor behavior.
This can erode trust and communication, leading to further conflict and eventual breakdown of the relationship.
So what can individuals do to mitigate these effects? First, it's important to recognize that being sexually attracted to someone doesn't mean you have to put up with subpar behavior. If your partner is not treating you fairly, it's okay to set boundaries and expect better treatment. Secondly, it's important to remember that attraction is fleeting - what feels right now may not feel right tomorrow. Don't base your entire future on sexual chemistry alone, but instead focus on shared values and goals.
Be honest with yourself about why you find someone attractive - are there deeper qualities you admire beyond just their physical appearance? By taking these steps, we can avoid letting our sexual desires cloud our judgement and create healthier, more equitable, and long-lasting relationships.
How does sexual attraction impact perceptions of equity, commitment, and partnership fairness?
Sexual attraction plays an important role in shaping perceptions of equity, commitment, and partnership fairness. When individuals are sexually attracted to their partners, they tend to perceive them as more committed to the relationship, which leads to higher levels of trust and satisfaction. Additionally, individuals who experience sexual desire for their partner may be less likely to engage in extramarital affairs, resulting in greater feelings of partnership fidelity.