Articles tagged with Human Sexual Behavior
A national study finds that over half of US adults have experienced physical violence and nearly half have experienced sexual violence, with stark disparities in who experiences violence and its link to economic hardship, mental health, and substance use. The study highlights the need for a broader strategy to prevent violence, address...
A new study by Flinders University suggests that excessive use of dating apps and pornography can lead to a weaker sense of existential meaning in romantic love. Experts found that people who used these platforms mindfully were less likely to become hooked and reported fewer problems with their views on love.
A new study from the University of Oxford found that drought exposure is associated with increased risk of sexual, emotional and physical violence among adolescents in Southern Africa. Girls and young women face the highest risk of violence during drought conditions.
Researchers found a clear divide in how gay and mainstream dating apps shape behavior and body image among Australian men. Gay dating apps encourage users to focus heavily on their bodies, leading to overwhelming pressure and negative self-talk.
A new study found that sexual arousal can make people more likely to interpret ambiguous interactions optimistically, even when there is uncertainty. This phenomenon can serve a purpose in early courtship by providing optimism, but also comes with costs as it may overshadow sensitivity to another person's actual wishes.
A clinical trial aims to evaluate whether laser therapy reduces vaginal dryness caused by breast cancer treatment. The study, REVITALIZE, plans to enroll approximately 250 women with a history of breast cancer who experience moderate to severe vaginal dryness.
A new US sexual health survey finds many Americans report positive experiences in sex and pleasure, yet women and gender-diverse individuals face higher rates of sexual violence and lower pleasure. The study highlights the need for a national sexual health strategy to promote awareness, research, and healthy relationships.
Researchers found women devalue orgasm only when it's consistently absent across partners. This shift in expectations helps soften the effects of not experiencing an orgasm on relationships, but also contributes to the orgasm gap over time.
Research reveals queer men in relationships are shifting from secretive to open approaches to sex and intimacy while traveling. Participants described 'monogamish' and 'open' relationship arrangements, with clear boundaries and communication crucial for avoiding problems.
The 'Desire on the Couch' exhibition examines how sexuality has been measured, medicalized, and experienced over a century. The show features rare archival materials and letters from key figures in the field.
Young adults who remain single for longer periods experience a decline in life satisfaction and increasing feelings of loneliness, particularly when entering their late twenties. Entering a first romantic relationship improves well-being across several dimensions, but the effects are less pronounced on depressive symptoms.
A Northwestern University study reveals that 2.3% of women experience unusual physical and emotional responses during orgasm, including laughter, crying, headaches, and more. These peri-orgasmic phenomena are normal but rare, with most women experiencing them only sometimes with orgasm.
A recent scoping review found a positive correlation between alcohol, cocaine use, and cigarette use with problematic pornography use (PPU). The study suggests that individuals using these substances are more likely to exhibit PPU behaviors.
A new study from the Kinsey Institute reveals that self-pleasure is a valuable care strategy for managing menopause symptoms, particularly mood and sleep changes. Most women surveyed are open to trying masturbation as a symptom management approach.
A Rutgers Health analysis found that discrimination, stigma and chronic stress contribute to increased anxiety, depression, PTSD & substance use among young sexual minority men. Chronic stress is associated with substance use, while experiences of discrimination are linked to social withdrawal from nightlife settings.
A study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found that bisexual and homosexual men are more jealous of emotional infidelity, similar to women. This contradicts previous assumptions that men are primarily jealous of sexual infidelity.
A new study by Binghamton University reveals that individuals with narcissistic, psychopathic, and Machiavellian personality traits exploit touch as a means of control in romantic relationships. They tend to have short-term, tumultuous relationships, often accompanied by violence.
The study found that a specific spinal circuit is involved in both ejaculation and arousal, and integrates sensory inputs to adjust its output based on the animal's internal state. The researchers also discovered that Gal⁺ neurons receive sensory input from the penis and can trigger ejaculation, but their effects are suppressed by brai...
A new study from Ohio State University found that middle-schoolers who use primarily informational social media sites are less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors. In contrast, interactive sites like Snapchat and Facebook were linked to lower ability to refuse sex and negotiate condom use. Informative sites like YouTube and TikT...
Despite federal law requiring some form of sexual education, a patchwork of state-level provisions mandate inaccurate or outdated curricula. Only 19 states require medically accurate instruction, while many states prioritize abstinence over comprehensive sex education.
Researchers developed an AI tool to automatically generate HIV prevention and testing campaign messages for counties in the US, leveraging real-time social media data. The method was tested in three studies, showing that AI-selected messages were perceived as more actionable and effective by target audiences than control messages.
A nationwide study of 1,500 US women aged 40-65 found that most continue to experience orgasm at the same frequency and quality as younger peers. The study suggests promoting masturbation among older women may enhance well-being and alleviate menopausal symptoms.
The Kinsey Institute and Match unveiled the 14th annual Singles in America study, revealing profound shifts in how Americans date and connect. The survey of 5,000 singles shows a growing emphasis on finding authentic relationships and challenges outdated norms.
A study from UC San Diego found that scholars accused of sexual misconduct experienced a significant decline in citations within three years of public allegations. In contrast, those accused of scientific misconduct showed no significant decrease in citations. Academics also reported being more likely to cite research by scholars accus...
Researchers at Stockholm University introduce the 'Valentine's Scale', a 7-question scientifically validated scale to measure relationship satisfaction. The scale provides concrete tips for strengthening relationships and has been shown to predict improvements in quality of life and mental health problems.
Scientists investigated the role of ancient VR type-1 (ancV1R) receptor in pheromone detection using knockout mice. The study found that ancV1R-deficient female mice had impaired pheromone detection and exhibited abnormal sexual behavior.
The proportion of bisexual residents in Stockholm County has increased from 1.6 to 3.1 per cent over the past decade, driven by younger generations, who are more likely to identify as bisexual than previous generations.
A team of scientists has pinpointed a critical neural circuit for female sexual rejection, revealing how the brain integrates signals to shape behavior. The ventromedial hypothalamus, specifically progesterone-sensitive neurons in the anterior VMH, play a crucial role in determining whether a female accepts or rejects mating attempts.
Researchers found that unsolicited flirting can decrease attraction to a partner in an established relationship. Participants rated lower levels of sexual desire and prioritized their own desires over their partner's pleasure, indicating defensive distancing.
A new study finds that cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improves multiple areas of sexual functioning, body image and couple satisfaction, while reducing menopause symptoms, depression, and anxiety. Researchers report a high level of participant satisfaction with the treatment.
A new study analyzed data from over 700 Swedish children, finding associations between gender nonconformity and autistic traits, behavioral difficulties, and peer relationship problems. Higher levels of nonconforming play were linked to increased behavioral challenges in both sexes.
A new Edith Cowan University study found that men who frequently stare at women's bodies are more likely to harbor harmful attitudes and exhibit behaviors that may lead to sexual assault. The study validates the 'pervasive body gaze scale' as a reliable marker for sexual objectification and assault propensity.
A sociological study found that most young adults experience confusion in choosing life-partners, with women more likely to report this than men. The pervasiveness of social media and digital dating can distort the reality of available candidates, leading to impulsiveness and decreased in-person interactions.
New research reveals how social media has supported an explosion of diversity in gender and sexuality in America, enabling self-expression and authenticity. Online platforms like Tumblr, TikTok, and Twitter have created new cultural narratives around gender identity, bisexuality, asexuality, and intersectionality.
A study from Binghamton University reveals that men with 'toxic masculinity' tend to act on passive responses, regardless of consent. Men who display hostile masculinity view situations as more consensual and are more likely to escalate intimacy.
A recent study investigated how a partner's gender influences women's expectations and pursuit of orgasm, contributing to the long-standing orgasm gap. The research found that dominant sexual scripts shaped by partner gender may contribute to the disparity.
A new study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that sexual minority adults are more willing to use digital health tools for screening and tracking compared to heterosexual adults. The study, which analyzed data from a COVID-19 survey, highlights the need for diverse populations to be considered in the developme...
Research suggests a positive association between high diversity of gut bacteria, Segatella species, and cardiovascular health. Men who have sex with men tend to have higher bacterial diversity, which may be linked to their microbiome being more similar to non-Westernized populations.
Research indicates nearly six million American women experienced unintended pregnancies as a result of rape and/or sexual coercion. The study also found that a significant portion of these women reported injuries, STDs, and felt fearful or concerned for their safety after the incidents.
Despite improved living conditions, sex differences in personality, verbal skills, and negative emotions are larger in countries with higher standards of living. Women tend to benefit more from these improvements, exhibiting greater altruism and cooperative ability, while men show better cognitive skills but at a smaller advantage.
A large international sample of single women aged 18-67 years was surveyed on their ideal partner characteristics, revealing links between age and preferences. Most attributes were consistently important across ages, but higher age correlated with a preference for confident partners and greater acceptance of younger partners.
Researchers at UCLA and Charles Drew University are receiving NIH funding to tackle the HIV epidemic, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as youth, transgender individuals, and Black Americans. The projects will explore innovative implementation strategies to enhance community engagement and support high-quality services.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE surveyed over 5,000 British people to better understand how sexual behaviors change with age. The research found that many gay and bisexual men continue to have multiple partners well into old age, while straight women become less sexually active after 50.
A recent study from Leipzig University found no significant link between oropharyngeal cancer and high-risk sexual behavior. The research, which analyzed data from over 300 patients with head and neck cancer, suggests that HPV infection is a key risk factor for the disease.
New research finds masturbation serves an adaptive function in primates, increasing reproductive success and aiding pathogen avoidance. The study, based on nearly 400 sources, reveals masturbation's evolutionary history and its co-evolution with multi-male mating systems.
A joint investigation reveals that NHS trusts are failing to protect staff and patients from sexual assault, with over 35,000 cases recorded between 2017-2022. The findings show that most incidents involve patients abusing staff or other patients, highlighting a disturbing trend in the healthcare system.
Victims of sexual assault are often blamed for not fighting back, but neuroscientific research suggests this may be due to involuntary immobility. Thirty per cent of women experience sexual assault or rape in their lifetime, and 70% report being 'frozen' during the ordeal.
A new survey found no evidence of a sexual double standard, with men being judged more strictly in short-term relationships but equally as in long-term ones. Women's masturbation is also seen as sexy and accepted, contradicting common stereotypes.
A Rutgers-led study reveals that women who believe they have more time for an encounter are more likely to pursue orgasms, while those who think their partner prioritizes his own pleasure are less likely. Women use cues and adjust their pursuit of orgasm depending on the situation, with the goal of achieving orgasm being a key factor i...
A team of psychologists found that adopting a partner's perspective reduces the likelihood of infidelity and other partnership-destroying behaviors. By putting themselves in their partner's shoes, individuals can increase commitment and desire for their current partner, while decreasing interest in alternative mates.
New research reveals that people in CNM relationships report experiencing a negative stigma that takes a toll on their psychological distress. A thematic analysis of survey responses identified four themes: discomfort/disapproval, loss of resources/threatening behavior, devaluation/diminishing of character/relationship.
A new study finds that individuals with stronger religious beliefs tend to have lower sex drives but are more content with their sex lives overall. Researchers also discovered a significant association between educational attainment and reduced sexual satisfaction.
Researchers urge healthcare professionals to acknowledge changes in society around anal sex and have open conversations with young women to ensure they make informed choices about sex. Young women cite pleasure, curiosity, and coercion as factors for engaging in anal sex, which is associated with specific health concerns, including fae...
A new study found a significant increase in unprotected sex, drinking, smoking, and cannabis use among rejected minorities. Researchers discovered that social rejection is associated with a 9.1% rise in tobacco consumption and a 12.5% increase in cannabis use.
A study by researchers at Hebrew University found that couples who synchronize their physiology and behavior during a first date are more romantically attracted to each other. The degree of synchrony also affects men and women differently, with women being more sexually attracted to 'super-synchronizers'.
Researchers develop system to measure power distribution between sexes in animals, finding females rule in some species, with reproductive control as common thread. The study proposes a new framework to quantify intersexual power relationships across mammalian societies.
A recent poll found that menopause symptoms significantly impact older women's sex lives, with 84% of women experiencing symptoms in the past year. Despite this, only 44% have discussed treatment with their healthcare provider, while 28% reported symptoms interfering with sexual activity.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered chimpanzees experiencing nocturnal erections, a phenomenon previously only observed in humans. Eight out of twelve male chimps demonstrated this behavior, with half also masturbating and consuming ejaculate, suggesting potential health benefits.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that infected fruit flies continue to engage in courtship and mating behaviors, similar to uninfected flies. The study suggests that animals may invest more in reproduction when faced with a potential life threat, potentially to pass on genes to the next generation
A Rutgers-led study found that women who experience fewer orgasms during sex tend to expect and desire less pleasure, perpetuating the 'orgasm gap' in relationships. The research suggests increasing women's expectations for orgasm can help break this cycle and improve overall sexual satisfaction.