Negative effects of the sexual double standard on sexual functioning and risk sexual behaviors

What is it about?

The Sexual Double Standard (SDS) is an attitude that involves different assessments of the same sexual behavior according to it is performed by a man or a woman. Traditionally, SDS supports greater sexual freedom for men than for women, so that certain sexual behaviors are better values by men and worse by women (e.g., more than one sexual relationship at the same time or having a lot of sexual experience). If we consider sexual health as the capacity that men and women have to freely express their sexuality, it is possible to think that the SDS gender inequality implies can have negative effects on it, specifically on sexual functioning (desire, arousal, orgasm, and sexual satisfaction) and risk sexual behaviors. Few studies have addressed these issues, and they have sometimes shown conflicting results. Hence, this study carried out a systematic review of 22 studies that studied this relationship. The most relevant conclusions set out in this review of the literature are that SDS adversely affects sexual functioning and favors risk sexual behavior, with its effects being more harmful to women. In terms of sexual functioning, SDS was negatively related to sexual desire, orgasmic experience, and sexual satisfaction, highlighting the fact that both men and women with attitudes that favor SDS are affected in their sexual satisfaction. In terms of risk sexual behaviors, SDS predicted less use of protective methods during sex, the greater likelihood of contracting sexually transmitted infections, and more difficulty making decisions during relationships.

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Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Why is it important?

It concludes by highlighting the importance of studying SDS for a better understanding of sexual health.

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