How Sexual Preferences Affect Conflict Resolution
Some people are attracted to one gender more than another, while others enjoy both genders equally. In heterosexual couples, this difference is called sexual orientation. In same-sex couples, it's called gender identity. Some people have no preference for either gender and don't mind having romantic or sexual encounters with men, women, or both. This is known as being asexual. In all cases, preferences can lead to conflict between partners who disagree about what they find most appealing. It may also cause problems if one partner feels that their needs aren't being met because of the other person's desires.
Conflicts over sexual preferences often arise when one partner wants something that the other doesn't want.
A man might be turned on by a woman with long hair but his wife has short hair. He may feel frustrated and rejected if she won't grow her hair out just to please him. Or, a couple may argue about how much sex to have and how often. One partner may desire more intimacy than the other, causing tension.
The way couples resolve conflicts around sexuality can be affected by their culture and upbringing. People from some cultures believe that it's wrong to question a spouse's preferences, so they avoid arguing altogether. Others encourage open communication, even when it leads to arguments. Couples should discuss their needs and expectations before getting married, which helps prevent misunderstandings later. When possible, they should compromise to meet each other's needs without sacrificing their own.
When negotiating differences ethically, partners must consider each other's perspectives. They need to ask themselves whether their requests are reasonable and whether they would accept them if reversed.
A husband shouldn't expect his wife to dress like a porn star in public if he wouldn't let her wear sweats at home. A woman shouldn't pressure her partner into anal sex if she isn't interested herself. Partners also need to listen actively to understand each other's feelings and motives. If one person feels uncomfortable or unsafe, the other should respect those boundaries.
How do sexual preferences affect conflict resolution, and how can partners negotiate differences ethically?
The study of human sexuality has revealed that individuals who identify as homosexual tend to be more open and accepting towards people from different backgrounds than their peers. This openness is often attributed to the fact that members of the LGBTQ community have been persecuted for their sexual orientation and, therefore, they are less likely to judge others on the basis of race, religion, gender, or socioeconomic status.