Study Discovers Roots of Sexual Anxiety

2015-01-07

We are all sexual beings. But how we regard, express and enjoy sex varies greatly. A new report is out containing 18 samples from the United States and Israel. It looks into how people regard sex. Researchers place this in the context of what they call the sexual behavioral system. This is a psychological system that helps one interpret sexual feelings, thoughts and experiences. Researchers discovered two entirely new variables to include into this system, which can illuminate us on how human sexual behavior operates, and in this way help address issues better. Most people believe sex to be a worthwhile and enjoyable experience. There is a minority however that harbor negative associations or experience anxiety when the topic comes up. These obstructive feelings can be rooted in societal pressure or one’s own adverse experiences. But they come to impede normal, healthy sexual encounters.The two newly discovered personality traits were hyper-activation of the sexual system, and deactivation.

Those who have a powerful appetite for sex are hyper-activators. But this is a front for fear of rejection and performance anxiety. They constantly worry about “not being good enough.” This type is more impulsive with their sexual behavior. They fantasize about sex more often, and these fantasies tend to be more detached, with elements of control or dominance. They give greater effort into attracting partners, are more likely to be coercive. These also have a higher interest in casual sex. The male version is more prone to premature ejaculation (PE), perhaps researchers assert due to over-stimulation. In a relationship this personality type is insecure, less trusting and more neurotic. Those with a deactivated sexual system are the mirror opposite. These tend to suppress their desires. They don’t think of themselves as a sexual person. This type does not go above and beyond to attract others. They were hurt or scarred in the past and now have a negative view about sex. This type is more likely to have orgasmic dysfunction—meaning difficulty reaching climax. In relationships these tend to be close minded, insecure and more neurotic. Interestingly, researchers found no significant gender differences. When tested, you can score high or low on one, the other or both. Scoring low on both is the best. These are the most well-adjusted when it comes to sex. See your doctor if you are experiencing sexual dysfunction, to find out whether the problem is psychological or physiological.