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