Good gets better? Examining the impact of prescribed sexual activity on long-term heterosexually configured couples’ sexual and relationship satisfaction

Abstract

ABSTRACTAlthough correlates and predictors of sexual and relationship satisfaction are frequently investigated, few studies have systematically examined approaches that are designed to enhance such endpoints among couples. This study evaluated the impact of a six- to eight-week intervention consisting of prescribed sexual activity with and without a sex toy among a community sample of 49 couples in heterosexual relationships. While quantitative analyses did not reveal statistically significant differences among standardized outcome measures, post hoc ceiling effects were noted, and open-ended responses analyzed using thematic analysis indicated the majority of men (75.5%) and women (79.5%) perceived that their sexual relationship satisfaction had improved as a result of participating in the intervention. Seven themes were developed to describe the ways that satisfaction increased over the course of the study: (1) introducing something fun and novel; (2) giving and receiving pleasure; (3) relating and communicating; (4) making time and space in one's relationship for sex and pleasure; (5) increasing emotional closeness; (6) increasing women's comfort with sex; and (7) validating strengths and barriers within the relationship. The findings of this study suggest specific relationship-enhancing effects of prescribed sexual activity for couples.