Virtual Sexual Engagement
The term "virtual sexual engagement" is used to describe any type of sexual activity that takes place online, through digital devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and virtual reality technology. This can include activities like texting, video chatting, sending photos, watching pornography, playing interactive games, and participating in online communities centered around sex and relationships. While these activities may seem harmless, they have been shown to have significant effects on individuals' self-perceived sexual competence, confidence, and relational desirability.
Self-Perceived Sexual Competence
One study found that individuals who engaged in virtual sexual behavior reported feeling less confident in their own sexual abilities than those who did not. They also felt that their partners were more likely to view them negatively due to their online activities. This suggests that virtual sexual engagement can lead to feelings of sexual inadequacy and decreased self-esteem.
It is important to note that this effect was not seen across all demographic groups, and further research is needed to determine how these effects differ among different populations.
Confidence
Another study found that women who participated in virtual sexual behavior had lower levels of sexual confidence than those who did not. This effect was particularly pronounced for those who engaged in multiple forms of virtual sexual behavior, suggesting that exposure to a variety of online interactions may be associated with reduced confidence. In contrast, men who engaged in virtual sexual behavior reported higher levels of sexual confidence than those who did not.
Relationships
Some researchers have suggested that virtual sexual engagement may impact individuals' perceptions of themselves as attractive and desirable romantic partners.
One study found that men who used dating apps such as Tinder were perceived as less desirable by potential partners compared to those who did not use the app. It is unclear whether these findings are applicable to other forms of virtual sexual engagement, but they suggest that there may be broader implications for individuals' relational desirability beyond just their ability to perform well sexually.
While virtual sexual engagement can offer new opportunities for exploring and expressing sexuality, it appears to have negative effects on individuals' self-perceived competence, confidence, and relational desirability. More research is needed to understand these effects and develop strategies to mitigate them.
To what degree does virtual sexual engagement alter self-perceived sexual competence, confidence, and relational desirability?
Virtual sexual engagement can be an effective way for individuals to explore their sexuality and communicate with others in a safe and anonymous environment, but it is important to recognize that these activities do not necessarily correlate with real-life performance and satisfaction. While some people may feel more confident and competent after experiencing virtual encounters, others may feel like they are falling short of traditional expectations and experience feelings of inadequacy or anxiety.