Discrimination, Internalized Sexual Prejudice and the Post-Sex Experience Among Members of Sexual Minorities

Abstract

ABSTRACT Postcoital dysphoria (PCD) refers to a counter-intuitive experience of sadness, tearfulness, irritability or dysphoria following an otherwise satisfactory and consensual sexual experience. Research to date has primarily focused on heteronormative samples. The current study explored the prevalence of PCD, and potential correlates of internalized sexual prejudice, perceived discrimination, and sex life satisfaction within a LGBTQIA+ population. One hundred and seventy-two adults identifying as LGBTQIA+ completed an online survey. Main outcome measures included the Post Sex Experience Scale (p-SES), Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), Internalized Homophobia Scale (IHS), Satisfaction with Sex Life Scale (SWSLS), and study specific questions. Prevalence of PCD was 42% of males attracted to other males and 81% of participants identifying as bisexual/sexual fluid. A significant and a moderate inverse correlation was found between sex life satisfaction and PCD (r = −.75) for individuals identifying as bisexual/fluid sexual orientation. Significant correlations were found between perceived discrimination and PCD (weak positive correlation, r = .28), and sex life satisfaction and PCD (moderate negative correlation, r = −.59) in men attracted to men. This research suggests being a member of a sexual minority is associated with sex-related dysphoria and dissatisfaction. Further research is needed to further elucidate PCD.