Paper Title

Sexual Diversity in the United States: Results from a Nationally Representative Survey

Keywords

  • Sexual Diversity
  • Sexual Behaviors
  • Sexual Interests
  • National Survey
  • Sexual Health
  • Sexual Identity
  • Masturbation
  • Vaginal Sex
  • Oral Sex
  • Anal Sex
  • Lingerie
  • Digital Nudity
  • Erotic Stories
  • Public Sex
  • Role-Playing
  • BDSM
  • Threesomes
  • Group Sex
  • Sexuality Workshops
  • Sexual Attitudes
  • Sexual Practices
  • Romantic Behaviors
  • Gender Differences
  • Sexual Exploration
  • Sexual Norms

Research Impact Tools

Publication Info

Volume: 13 | Issue: S6 | Pages: S253

Published On

June, 2016

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Abstract

Objectives To document, among a nationally representative sample of adult women and men, a broader range of adults’ sexual behaviors and interests. Methods A cross-sectional, Internet-based, US nationally representative probability survey of 2,021 adult women (n = 1046) and men (n = 975). Participants reported on demographic items, lifetime and recent sexual behaviors, and rated the appeal of 50+ sexual behaviors. Results Most participants (>80%) reported lifetime masturbation, vaginal sex, and oral sex. Lifetime anal sex was reported by 43% of men (insertive) and 37% of women (receptive). Common lifetime sexual behaviors included wearing sexy lingerie/underwear (75% women, 26% men), sending/receiving digital nude/semi-nude photos (54% women, 65% men), reading erotic stories (57% of participants), public sex (≥43%), role-playing (≥22%), tying/being tied up (≥20%), spanking (≥30%), and watching sexually explicit videos/DVDs (60% women, 82% men). Threesomes (10% women, 18% men) and playful whipping (≥13%) were less common. Lifetime group sex, sex parties, taking a sexuality class/workshop, and going to BDSM parties were uncommon (<8%). More Americans identified many behaviors as “appealing” than had engaged in them. Romantic/affectionate behaviors were among those most commonly identified as appealing.

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