Sexual fantasies are common among people of all ages and genders. They can range from simple to complex, involving a wide variety of situations and scenarios that may seem unusual, shocking, or even disturbing to some individuals.
They play an important role in human psychology and behavior, guiding our thoughts, actions, and choices, including those related to partners and relationships. In this article, we will explore how sexual fantasies impact our choice of partner and level of attraction.
How Sexual Fantasies Guide Partner Selection
Sexual fantasies often involve specific characteristics or traits that we find attractive in potential romantic partners.
Someone might fantasize about being dominated by their partner, which could lead them to seek out someone who is confident and assertive. Similarly, someone who has a fantasy about being submissive may be drawn to someone who appears dominant and powerful. Other factors such as physical appearance, personality traits, and shared interests may also influence our selection process.
One study found that women who had frequent and intense sexual fantasies were more likely to choose partners who matched their idealized images, while men who had similar fantasies were less picky about their partner's looks. This suggests that sexual fantasies can help narrow down the field of potential partners based on what we perceive as desirable.
How Sexual Fantasies Affect Attraction
In addition to shaping our preferences for certain qualities in a partner, sexual fantasies can also affect the intensity of our attraction towards them. The same study mentioned above found that women who frequently experienced sexual arousal during their fantasies were more likely to report higher levels of sexual desire towards their real-life partners. Men reported similar results when their fantasies involved sex acts they had already engaged in with their current partner.
These findings suggest that sexual fantasies can increase the sense of connection and intimacy between partners by reinforcing existing bonds and creating new ones. By imagining ourselves in erotic situations with our partner, we are able to recreate the feelings of excitement and satisfaction that come from sharing an emotional and physical bond.
Potential Drawbacks
While sexual fantasies can have some benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to consider.
Some individuals may feel guilty or ashamed about their fantasies, leading to self-doubt and negative body image issues. Others may become fixated on specific scenarios or traits, making it difficult to form meaningful connections outside of their fantasy world. It is important to remember that everyone has different needs and preferences, and there is no "right" way to experience sexuality.
How do sexual fantasies guide partner selection and attraction?
Sexual fantasies are one of many factors that can play a role in guiding partner selection and attraction. Individuals may have specific desires and preferences when it comes to physical appearance, behavioral traits, and social characteristics that they find attractive or repulsive. These inclinations can be shaped by various external and internal influences such as cultural norms, personal experiences, and biological predispositions.