Sexual Intimacy: Definition & Emotional Buffering
There is no commonly accepted definition of "sexual intimacy" but it is generally understood to involve physical contact between two or more people that includes caressing, kissing, touching, oral stimulation, intercourse, and/or any combination thereof. It may also include verbal communication, eye contact, and body language. Sexual intimacy can occur during dating, marriage, long-term committed relationships, one-night stands, friendships, casual encounters, and prostitution.
Emotional distress refers to feelings of sadness, anxiety, stress, anger, fear, shame, guilt, frustration, disappointment, grief, loneliness, or other negative emotions. Emotional distress can be caused by many factors such as personal loss (death, breakup), work issues, financial problems, family conflicts, health concerns, legal troubles, natural disasters, social pressures, or external events beyond an individual's control.
Researchers have found that sexual intimacy can buffer individuals from experiencing emotional distress in several ways:
1. Sexual intimacy releases chemicals such as oxytocin and dopamine that help reduce feelings of stress, tension, and pain.
2. Sexual intimacy promotes relaxation, comfort, and pleasure, which can help relieve the tension and anxiety associated with emotional distress.
3. Sexual intimacy provides a sense of connection, closeness, and support, which can help alleviate feelings of isolation, alienation, and rejection.
4. Sexual intimacy helps individuals feel more confident, empowered, and capable, which can provide a sense of agency and self-worth when facing difficult circumstances.
5. Sexual intimacy can provide a temporary escape from the demands and challenges of daily life, allowing individuals to momentarily forget their worries and focus on something pleasurable.
6. Sexual intimacy may enhance cognitive functioning and problem-solving abilities, providing a fresh perspective on complex issues.
It is important to note that sexual intimacy does not always buffer emotional distress. In some cases, it may even exacerbate negative feelings by increasing guilt, shame, or regret afterward.
There are cultural, religious, and personal beliefs that may affect how sex is viewed and experienced, which can further complicate its effects on emotions.
While sexual intimacy can provide an effective way to cope with emotional distress, it should be used in conjunction with other coping strategies such as therapy, exercise, meditation, journaling, and social support.
How does sexual intimacy buffer emotional distress?
Sexual intimacy is often believed to be an important factor that contributes towards emotional well-being. In fact, studies have shown that people who engage in regular sexual activity tend to feel more emotionally stable than those who do not. This phenomenon can be explained by the way sex affects the brain's chemistry and neurological processes, which can lead to feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and decreased anxiety.