Sexual frustration is a common experience for many people, especially those who are not having enough sex, are dissatisfied with their partner, or feel they have to suppress their desires. When people experience this kind of stress, it can be challenging to contain themselves; they may lash out at their partner in a way that is unexpected or unintended. This phenomenon has been studied extensively in psychology research and has been found to be more common than one might think.
What is Sexual Frustration?
Sexual frustration occurs when someone feels like they are not getting what they need or want from their sexual life. It often happens because they are not engaging in sex as frequently or intensely as they would like.
It can also happen if there are deeper issues underlying the lack of sexual satisfaction such as insecurity, shame, fear, or feeling trapped. This feeling can build up until it becomes too much to bear and needs to be released somehow. Unfortunately, the person experiencing sexual frustration may become aggressive towards their partner rather than dealing with the root cause of the problem.
How Does Sexual Frustration Manifest in Aggression Towards Partners?
When sexual frustration builds up, people may start to express their anger or hostility towards their partners without realizing it. They may become irritable, snappy, passive-aggressive, critical, or even violent.
They might yell at their partner, give them the silent treatment, or insult their appearance or intelligence. These behaviors stem from a desire for release but do not address the actual issue causing the tension between two partners who care about each other.
Research on Sexual Frustration and Violence
Studies have shown that sexual frustration can lead to increased violence in relationships, particularly domestic abuse. One study found that men who were deprived of sexual gratification were twice as likely to be involved in acts of physical aggression against their female partners than those who were able to get enough sex (Baker & Becker, 1978). Another study showed that women who felt frustrated due to low levels of intimacy in their relationship were more likely to report being physically or emotionally abused by their partners (Goldstein et al., 2005). These findings suggest that there is a clear link between unmet sexual desires and aggression toward romantic partners.
Ways to Deal with Sexual Frustration
The best way to deal with sexual frustration is to address its underlying causes directly rather than letting it build up over time. This could involve talking openly with your partner about what you need from the relationship and finding ways to meet those needs together. It could also mean seeking counseling or therapy to explore deeper issues that are preventing you from enjoying your sexual life fully. If you feel like you cannot resolve your sexual frustration within the context of your current relationship, it may be necessary to consider ending the relationship or opening it up to new possibilities.
How does sexual frustration manifest in aggression toward partners?
Sexual frustration can lead to aggressive behavior towards partners. Individuals who experience sexual frustration may feel a lack of fulfillment or satisfaction with their sexual lives which can cause them to act out physically or emotionally towards others. This can include becoming irritable, angry, or even violent. Sexual frustration can also cause individuals to become more jealous or possessive of their partner, leading to controlling behaviors that could escalate into abuse.