Gendered Sexual Expectations Shape Negotiation, Communication and Relational Satisfaction.
Negotiation is an important part of every relationship. It allows couples to communicate their needs, wants, and desires regarding different aspects of their lives.
This process can be shaped by society's gendered sexual expectations, which may influence how partners approach negotiations, communication, and ultimately, their relational satisfaction. In this article, I will discuss how these expectations affect various aspects of a couple's relationship, including negotiation, communication, and relational satisfaction.
Gendered sexual expectations refer to societal norms that dictate what men and women are supposed to do or want during sexual encounters. These include what kind of activities should take place, who initiates them, when they occur, and how often.
Many cultures view men as more sexually aggressive than women, meaning that men are expected to make the first move. This expectation may influence how men negotiate for sex, leading them to feel pressured to always be the one who initiates intimacy. On the other hand, women may feel pressure to wait for their partner to make the first move or to deny their own desires in order to maintain their image of being 'chaste.' Both men and women may find it difficult to communicate their preferences if they fall outside of societal norms.
Gendered sexual expectations shape how couples communicate about sex. Men and women may have different ways of expressing themselves sexually, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.
Some women may be uncomfortable with explicit language or visual imagery but not know how to tell their partners without coming across as prudish. Likewise, men may struggle to express their needs for emotional connection or sensuality in addition to physical gratification. Without open communication, partners may fail to meet each other's needs, leading to dissatisfaction in the relationship.
Gendered sexual expectations can impact a couple's overall relational satisfaction. If one partner feels pressured to conform to society's standards, they may resent their partner for not living up to those expectations or become frustrated by having to constantly compromise their wants and needs. Similarly, if both partners feel constrained by these expectations, it can lead to a sense of stagnation or boredom in the relationship. In order to break free from these patterns, individuals need to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to relationships or sex. By discussing what they want and why, partners can create more fulfilling and satisfying intimacy together.
How do gendered sexual expectations shape negotiation, communication, and relational satisfaction?
Gendered sexual expectations can have a significant impact on negotiation, communication, and relational satisfaction. In romantic relationships, men are generally expected to initiate sexual encounters while women are expected to be more receptive to these advances. This expectation can lead to difficulties for both partners as they navigate their roles within the relationship.