Sexuality is an essential aspect of human life that affects individuals' physical, emotional, social, and psychological well-being. It has been studied extensively by researchers across various disciplines such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, biology, and medicine. Sexual agency refers to one's capacity to participate actively and consciously in sexual encounters. Self-concept, on the other hand, denotes how individuals perceive themselves, their abilities, and attributes. Relational outcomes are the results of interactions between people, including love, friendship, marriage, and partnership. This article will explore the relationship between sexual agency and self-concept and its impact on relational outcomes.
Theoretical framework
The conceptual framework for this study comprises three interrelated components: sexual agency, self-concept, and relational outcomes. Sexual agency reflects the degree to which an individual initiates or responds to sexual advances, sets sexual boundaries, and engages in sexual practices. Self-concept involves perceptions of oneself regarding physical appearance, body image, personality traits, beliefs, values, and behavioral tendencies. Relational outcomes refer to the quality and type of relationships formed with others, including romantic, platonic, familial, professional, and social connections. These components interact dynamically, resulting in complex patterns of behavior, experience, and interaction.
Literature review
Several studies have examined the link between sexuality and human development, focusing on factors such as attitudes, behaviors, identity, and satisfaction. According to Bem (1974), gender roles shape sexual identities, influencing behavior, desires, and expectations. Studies suggest that women's sexual agency is more limited than men's due to socialization and cultural norms (Hite & Seibold, 2008).
Some researchers dispute this view, arguing that women can exercise their sexual agency despite societal constraints (Oppenheimer, 2015). Other scholars explore how sexual agency affects individuals' self-esteem, emphasizing its impact on personal growth and resilience (Brown & Eisenberg, 2016). Some researchers investigate how power dynamics influence intimacy and sexual decision-making (Allen et al., 2019).
Relational outcomes may be shaped by individual differences in sexual orientation, preferences, and experiences (Davis, 2021).
Research questions
The study will address two primary research questions: (1) How does sexual agency influence an individual's self-concept? And (2) What are the relational outcomes associated with varying levels of sexual agency? To answer these questions, a mixed-methods approach involving quantitative and qualitative data collection methods will be employed. The sample comprises heterosexual couples in long-term relationships. Participants will complete questionnaires measuring their level of sexual agency and self-concept, followed by interviews exploring the relationship between these factors and their romantic partnerships.
Methodology
A non-experimental, correlational design will be used to examine the relationship between sexual agency and self-concept using correlation coefficients. A thematic analysis approach will be applied to qualitative data, identifying patterns and themes related to sexual agency and relational outcomes. This study seeks to determine whether there is a direct or indirect relationship between the three variables under investigation and to explore possible mediating effects.
This article has examined the complex interplay between sexuality, self-perception, and interpersonal relations. It highlighted the multidimensional nature of human sexuality, emphasizing its potential impact on individuals' physical, emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Future research should investigate the role of cultural contexts and power dynamics in shaping sexual agency and relational outcomes. This study will provide insight into how individuals perceive themselves and interact with others, contributing to our understanding of human behavior and experience.
What mechanisms explain the influence of sexual agency on self-concept and relational outcomes?
Sexual agency is defined as an individual's capacity to engage in sexually intimate behaviors with others, including being able to express one's own desires, needs, and boundaries in order to achieve desired results. It has been found that individuals who possess high levels of sexual agency tend to have more positive self-perceptions compared to those who do not.