Journal Description
Sexes
Sexes
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on the interdisciplinary study of sexuality, with broad coverage of issues related to sexual health and behavior, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), EBSCO, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 37.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Theorizing Interpersonal and Technological Dimensions of Privacy in the Exchange of Sexual Communication
Sexes 2024, 5(2), 71-84; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes5020006 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
As technology continues to evolve, so too do privacy concerns individuals have about technology. This is especially true when individuals share highly sensitive, personal content through technology. When individuals sext, they are sharing sexually explicit messages, photos, and videos with another person. Two
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As technology continues to evolve, so too do privacy concerns individuals have about technology. This is especially true when individuals share highly sensitive, personal content through technology. When individuals sext, they are sharing sexually explicit messages, photos, and videos with another person. Two theories are interrogated in how they may apply to sexting and privacy: communication privacy management theory and privacy calculus. Utilizing these theories, privacy is highlighted in this article as a negotiation process between partners and technologies. Individuals must consider who they share material with and the channels they use, and these theories can help in developing a better understanding of these processes. Sexting can be a positive influence on adults’ romantic relationships, whether serious or casual; yet, they need to be able to engage in these behaviors in ways that encourage trust both interpersonally and with their technology.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
How Italians Transgress: A Survey on Rough Sexual Behaviors in a Sample of Italians
by
Luca Daminato, Greta Riboli, Mattia Nese, Gianni Brighetti, Daniel Giunti and Rosita Borlimi
Sexes 2024, 5(2), 58-70; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes5020005 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Surveys of the Italian population typically assess general sexual behaviors (e.g., oral, vaginal and anal intercourse). However, little is known about other sexual behavior such as rough sexual behaviors, choking and slapping. Thus, an online cross-sectional survey of 4618 Italian participants was conducted.
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Surveys of the Italian population typically assess general sexual behaviors (e.g., oral, vaginal and anal intercourse). However, little is known about other sexual behavior such as rough sexual behaviors, choking and slapping. Thus, an online cross-sectional survey of 4618 Italian participants was conducted. In the past month, the most prevalent sexual behaviors were solo masturbation (93.6%), partner masturbation (80.0%), oral sex (71.4% received, 75.9% performed), penile–vaginal intercourse (75.7%) and anal intercourse (12.5% received, 7.1% performed). Regarding rough sexual behaviors, the most common behaviors performed were spanking (23.3% received, 55.5% performed), choking (13.2% receive, 60.0% performed), slapping (30.1% received, 20.9% performed) and name calling (44.5% received, 37.0% performed). Our results suggest a gender difference where men and transgender/non-binary individuals perform more rough sexual behaviors compared to women. Moreover, regarding the role of consent in behaviors such as choking and slapping, our results highlight the importance of sexual and affective education to implement sexual assertiveness. In conclusion, this study adds knowledge to the limited literature on this topic, especially with respect to the Italian population.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Comparing Attitudes toward Sexual Consent between Japan and Canada
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Tomoya Mukai, Chantal Pioch, Masahiro Sadamura, Karin Tozuka, Yui Fukushima and Ikuo Aizawa
Sexes 2024, 5(2), 46-57; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes5020004 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Japanese and Canadian laws regarding sexual assault vary in the degree to which they incorporate the concept of sexual consent, with Japanese law being less consent-oriented than Canadian law. Although the Japanese law has incorporated the concept of sexual consent in the 2023
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Japanese and Canadian laws regarding sexual assault vary in the degree to which they incorporate the concept of sexual consent, with Japanese law being less consent-oriented than Canadian law. Although the Japanese law has incorporated the concept of sexual consent in the 2023 amendment, the public understanding of the concept is still limited. Reflecting such difference, it could be expected that the general public in both countries also differ in their perceptions and attitudes regarding punishment of sexual crime and sexual consent. The present study aimed to test these expectations and further examine the mediational mechanism that explains the national difference between Japan and Canada. The data from 1125 Japanese and 1125 Canadian respondents showed that Japanese respondents were less likely to perceive the imposition of punishment on an alleged perpetrator described in scenarios as appropriate. In contrast, the difference in the perceived victim’s consent was significant only in three out of seven scenarios. The relation between nations (Japan vs. Canada) and perceived appropriateness of punishment was mediated by the perceived victim’s consent.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sexual Behavior and Attitudes)
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Open AccessArticle
French Validation of the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale Short Form (NSSS-SF Fr)
by
Brice Gouvernet
Sexes 2024, 5(1), 31-45; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes5010003 - 28 Feb 2024
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This study addresses the critical need for French-language tools in assessing sexual satisfaction, an important aspect of global health, sexual health, and mental health. Its main aim is to validate the French version of the NSSS-SF scale (NSSS-SF Fr, Fr for French). The
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This study addresses the critical need for French-language tools in assessing sexual satisfaction, an important aspect of global health, sexual health, and mental health. Its main aim is to validate the French version of the NSSS-SF scale (NSSS-SF Fr, Fr for French). The research was conducted in two phases. The first study involved 253 participants, predominantly female (77.75%), with a focus on examining the tool’s psychometric properties (factorial structure, internal consistency, convergent validity). The second study included 855 participants, with a similar gender distribution, aimed at further validation and analysis, studying links between NSSS-SF Fr and anxiety and depressive symptoms (assessed with GAD7 and MDI), and attachment style (ECR-RS). The NSSS-SF Fr demonstrated robust psychometric properties. Key findings included its strong correlation with sexual health indicators, anxiety, depression, and attachment styles confirming its effectiveness as a reliable tool for evaluating sexual satisfaction in French-speaking populations. Comparisons with international studies highlighted its universal applicability and cultural sensitivity. The NSSS-SF French version stands as a critical tool for future research and clinical practice, bridging a vital gap in the assessment of sexual satisfaction among French-speaking individuals.
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Open AccessArticle
“Just lmk When You Want to Have Sex”: An Exploratory–Descriptive Qualitative Analysis of Sexting in Emerging Adult Couples
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Erika Montanaro, Jasmine Temple, Mia Ersoff, Bridget Jules, Mariam Jaliawala, Dara Kinkopf, Samantha Webb and Jessamyn Moxie
Sexes 2024, 5(1), 9-30; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes5010002 - 1 Feb 2024
Abstract
Background: An essential component of new relationship development is sexual communication between partners. The rise of technology has allowed couples to use text messaging to facilitate these conversations. The current study examines how emerging adults (18–25 years) in new relationships communicate about sex
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Background: An essential component of new relationship development is sexual communication between partners. The rise of technology has allowed couples to use text messaging to facilitate these conversations. The current study examines how emerging adults (18–25 years) in new relationships communicate about sex through text messages. Methods: We conducted inductive thematic analyses of text messages between different-gender couples in the first six months of their relationship (20 couples, N = 40) in which the women were between 18 and 25 years of age. We used the Dedoose qualitative analysis software and a coding team of 16 coders. Reliability was established through the “test” function of Dedoose, with codes of Kappas less than 0.70 discussed and refined in the codebook. Results: Primary themes of how couples communicate about sex emerged, which included the use of humor, discussing previous sexual experiences and partners, and sharing interests around future sexual encounters. During thematic analyses, secondary themes of motivations for sexual communication emerged, including learning, bonding, and enhancement. Conclusions: Addressing the varied motivations emerging adult couples may use in text messages can be leveraged for improving sexual health. Theories related to relationship development may not fully capture how couples discuss sex, particularly via text messages.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sexual Behavior and Attitudes)
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Open AccessCase Report
“You Shall Make Lake Victoria, and Become a Goddess of Love”: A Case Report about Traditional Female Ejaculation Techniques in Kenya
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Fiorenza Pesce, Elena Colonnello, Andrea Sansone, Elisa Maseroli, Linda Vignozzi, Susanna Dolci and Emmanuele A. Jannini
Sexes 2024, 5(1), 1-8; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes5010001 - 15 Jan 2024
Abstract
Kunyaza is a traditional sexual technique reported in some regions of Central Africa that aims to trigger peri-orgasmic fluid production. A personal narrative experience of a 29-year-old unmarried woman from Kenya suggested that this particular technique may have also been practiced in Kenya
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Kunyaza is a traditional sexual technique reported in some regions of Central Africa that aims to trigger peri-orgasmic fluid production. A personal narrative experience of a 29-year-old unmarried woman from Kenya suggested that this particular technique may have also been practiced in Kenya for a long time. Indeed, an oral tradition about “how to make Lake Victoria”, a peculiar local expression used to indicate peri-orgasmic fluid production, is reported here. This tradition is transmitted from grandmothers to granddaughters and concerns not only fluid emission but also teachings on personal hygiene, sexual interactions with a partner, and, interestingly, the importance of the woman’s sexual pleasure. In this narrative case report, we compared anecdotes and personal experiences with literature evidence about herbal medicine and traditional practices, suggesting the presence of a particularly woman-centered sexual culture in some more sex-positive ethnic groups in Kenya.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Adaptation of the Information, Motivation, and Behavioral Skills Framework for Understanding COVID-19 Prevention Behaviors among Youth and Young Adults by Sexual Identity, Gender Identity and Race/Ethnicity
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Gregory Phillips II, Jiayi Xu, Michael G. Curtis, Megan M. Ruprecht, Shahin Davoudpour, Joseph Choi, Kay Quiballo, Sophia Huang and Kathryn Macapagal
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 656-676; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040042 - 12 Dec 2023
Abstract
Youth and young adults (YYA) have been uniquely affected by COVID-19. Behavioral models have not yet been applied to understand YYA’s preventive behavior, though the Information–Motivation–Behavior (IMB) model may be appropriate. We used data from a national, diverse survey of COVID-19 effects and
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Youth and young adults (YYA) have been uniquely affected by COVID-19. Behavioral models have not yet been applied to understand YYA’s preventive behavior, though the Information–Motivation–Behavior (IMB) model may be appropriate. We used data from a national, diverse survey of COVID-19 effects and prevention behaviors in YYA ages 14–24 (n = 1026) and conducted an exploratory factor analysis and bivariate linear regressions to assess the association between demographics and IMB measures. Significant differences by sexual identity were identified, with bisexual/pansexual, gay/lesbian, and queer populations reporting significantly lower prevention stigma, in comparison to their straight respondents. Non-binary respondents (vs. women/girls) and transgender and gender diverse individuals (vs. cisgender) had significantly higher intentions to social distance. Racial/ethnicity differences were also found in lower prevention efficacy beliefs (Latinx and multiracial vs. white), and lower motivation norms (Black and Latinx vs. white). Our findings about critical disparities in IMB measures provide recommendations for future prevention research, practice, and policy development in response to the pandemic, particularly related to highly marginalized communities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sexual Behavior and Attitudes)
Open AccessReview
Sex, Age, and Risk Group Variations among Individuals Infected with HIV, HTLV-1, and HTLV-2: Review of Data Records (1983–2017) from a Public Health Laboratory in São Paulo, Brazil
by
Adele Caterino-de-Araujo
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 638-655; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040041 - 8 Dec 2023
Abstract
The inaugural AIDS Program in Brazil was established in São Paulo in 1983, with the Instituto Adolfo Lutz appointed for laboratory assistance. Subsequently, research on HIV infections and HIV/HTLV (HIV/HTLV-1 and HIV/HTLV-2) co-infections was conducted. This narrative review focuses on studies from the
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The inaugural AIDS Program in Brazil was established in São Paulo in 1983, with the Instituto Adolfo Lutz appointed for laboratory assistance. Subsequently, research on HIV infections and HIV/HTLV (HIV/HTLV-1 and HIV/HTLV-2) co-infections was conducted. This narrative review focuses on studies from the Immunology Department (1983–2017) that significantly influenced AIDS diagnosis or provided epidemiological data such as prevalence rates, sex, age, and risk factors. Twelve studies, encompassing over 8000 individuals, are discussed. During 1983–1985, nearly all AIDS cases were attributed to homosexual/bisexual men aged 31 years old. Subsequently, heterosexual men and women emerged as risk groups owing to intravenous drug use (IDU) and/or unprotected sexual intercourse with AIDS patients or multiple partners per year. From 1985 onwards, vertical transmission led to child infections. HIV/HTLV co-infection rates decreased over time, initially associated with male IDU, and in the 2010s with female IDU, and individuals aged >40 years. Trends in HIV and HIV/HTLV co-infections among younger men and women (<30 years of age) were observed from 2015 to 2017. The changing characteristics and risk groups for HIV and HIV/HTLV co-infections over the years underscore the necessity for ongoing public policies to prevent retrovirus transmission, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sexually Transmitted Infections/Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Associations between Self-Reported Anatomical Characteristics of the Penis and Sexual Dysfunction in Men
by
Caoyuan Niu, Daniel Ventus, Patrick Jern and Pekka Santtila
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 622-637; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040040 - 8 Dec 2023
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Premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction are common male sexual dysfunctions worldwide, causing substantial distress in men as well as their partners and decreasing the quality and stability of romantic relationships. We investigated the associations between the self-reported anatomical characteristics of penises and sexual
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Premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction are common male sexual dysfunctions worldwide, causing substantial distress in men as well as their partners and decreasing the quality and stability of romantic relationships. We investigated the associations between the self-reported anatomical characteristics of penises and sexual dysfunctions in an urban sample of Chinese men. We recruited 1085 Chinese urban men aged from 18 to 50 (M = 31.37; SD = 5.52) to fill out an online questionnaire regarding the anatomical characteristics of their penis, as well as early ejaculation and erectile problems via two Chinese online survey platforms. The participants reported their age, height, weight, penile length, penile circumference, circumcision status, and foreskin characteristics as well as answered the International Index of Erectile Function-5 and Checklist for Early Ejaculation Symptoms. Both an increasing penile length (M = 14.49; SD = 2.22) and girth (M = 15.46; SD = 4.36) were associated with fewer early ejaculation problems, but only an increasing penile length was associated with fewer erectile problems. Less foreskin covering the glans of the penis was associated with fewer early ejaculation and erectile problems. Age was found to have a non-linear relationship with early ejaculation and erectile problems in this cross-sectional study. Specifically, early ejaculation problems decreased until a certain age (31), and then increased with further increases in age. The relationship between the anatomical characteristics of the penis and sexual function is complex. Also, the results suggest that there is a curvilinear non-monotonic relationship between age and sexual dysfunction.
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Open AccessArticle
Sexual Identity–Behavior Discordant Heterosexuals in Britain: Findings from the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyle 2010–2012 (Natsal-3)
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Maria Calatrava, D. Paul Sullins and Steph James
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 601-621; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040039 - 29 Nov 2023
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This study delves into heterosexual identity–behavior discordance, exploring the interaction between sexual identification and behavior in the UK. Analyzing representative 2010 data from the British population (N = 12,472), this research categorizes participants into different groups: nonheterosexual, concordant heterosexual, and three discordant heterosexual
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This study delves into heterosexual identity–behavior discordance, exploring the interaction between sexual identification and behavior in the UK. Analyzing representative 2010 data from the British population (N = 12,472), this research categorizes participants into different groups: nonheterosexual, concordant heterosexual, and three discordant heterosexual categories (closeted, experimenters, and desisters). These groups were compared in terms of sociodemographics, attitudes toward sexuality, risk behaviors, and health indicators. Discordance was associated with permissive social attitudes, including behaviors such as adultery and one-night stands, and with increased substance abuse and risky sexual behaviors, especially among the closeted. Surprisingly, the physical and mental health of discordant heterosexuals was similar to concordant heterosexuals, in contrast to the poorer health of nonheterosexuals. Due to the significant variations in lifestyles and health indicators among different groups, this study highlights the importance of providing targeted services and interventions.
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Open AccessArticle
“As Long as It’s Not on the Face”: Pornography Viewers Discuss Male Ejaculation Perceptions and Preferences
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Eran Shor
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 587-600; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040038 - 15 Nov 2023
Abstract
Feminist scholars have suggested that male ejaculations in pornographic videos, particularly ejaculations on a sexual partner’s face or in their mouth, are often used to symbolically debase and humiliate women. However, no previous study has asked pornography viewers about their perceptions and preferences
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Feminist scholars have suggested that male ejaculations in pornographic videos, particularly ejaculations on a sexual partner’s face or in their mouth, are often used to symbolically debase and humiliate women. However, no previous study has asked pornography viewers about their perceptions and preferences regarding male ejaculation. In this article, I investigate these perceptions and preferences using a large sample of more than 300 pornography viewers representing diverse demographics and cultural backgrounds. I find that most viewers either did not care about the male ejaculation or its placement or preferred for it to be in the female partner’s vagina. In contrast to common assumptions found in the literature, very few viewers expressed a preference for ejaculation on a woman’s face or in her mouth and many of them found such practices disturbing.
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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle
Researching Homosexuality in Difficult Contexts
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Frida Lyonga
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 569-586; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040037 - 1 Nov 2023
Abstract
Homosexuality is a sensitive issue in Africa that inspires a great deal of public contention and controversy and attracts much social science research interest. Due to the sensitivity of the issue, conducting empirical research on homosexuality in Africa or within African population groups
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Homosexuality is a sensitive issue in Africa that inspires a great deal of public contention and controversy and attracts much social science research interest. Due to the sensitivity of the issue, conducting empirical research on homosexuality in Africa or within African population groups could be subject to several challenges. This article presents an autoethnographic account of my experiences conducting empirical research on attitudes towards homosexuality among Cameroonians based at home and those living in Switzerland. The paper highlights the key challenges, surprises, and lessons learned experienced in the different stages of the research process, from design to data collection, analysis, and publication of findings. Drawing on these experiences, the article calls attention to some aspects that young researchers embarking on research in sensitive topics should be aware of and should plan for upfront. It proposes practical coping approaches that can support young researchers to navigate the difficult waters of researching homosexuality in challenging settings so they can achieve their research goals within the timeframe and resources available to them.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sexual Behavior and Attitudes)
Open AccessArticle
Is Consumption of Ginger in Daily Life Associated with Sexual Response?
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Guangju Wen, Yikang Zhang, Thomas J. Nyman, Patrick Jern and Pekka Santtila
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 555-568; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040036 - 28 Oct 2023
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Sexual dysfunction, a globally widespread concern, is associated with numerous negative outcomes. While some evidence indicates the potential of ginger supplementation to enhance sexual function, comprehensive research in this area remains scarce and the potential mechanism behind is unclear. The current study aimed
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Sexual dysfunction, a globally widespread concern, is associated with numerous negative outcomes. While some evidence indicates the potential of ginger supplementation to enhance sexual function, comprehensive research in this area remains scarce and the potential mechanism behind is unclear. The current study aimed to explore if and how consumption of ginger as part of a daily diet is associated with sexual desire, frequency of sexual behavior, as well as sexual arousal and disgust experienced during these behaviors. Chinese participants (N = 499; 250 women) from an online sample service (Credamo) answered a cross-sectional survey regarding their consumption of ginger, sexual behavior, and sexual desire. Ginger consumption was associated with higher sexual desire, and more frequent sexual behaviors, as well as feelings of sexual arousal during them. Sexual desire and feelings of sexual arousal during specific sexual activities mediated the association between the ginger consumption and the frequency of sexual behaviors, indicating potential pathways of the effects of ginger on sexual behavior. Interestingly, while ginger consumption showed no direct relationship with feelings of disgust during sexual behavior, sexual arousal during these behaviors did positively mediate the association between ginger consumption and feelings of disgust. The findings imply that ginger shows potential as an intervention for enhancing sexual behavior, but further experimental and longitudinal research is needed to fully understand the causal mechanisms underlying the effects of ginger on sexual health.
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Open AccessReview
Sex Differences in Autonomic Blood Pressure Regulation: Sex Chromosome Complement and Hormonal Involvement
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Ximena E. Caeiro, Gabriela V. Silva and Andrea Godino
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 536-554; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040035 - 18 Oct 2023
Abstract
Although several lines of evidence from different studies highlight sex differences in cardiovascular diseases, to date, most studies have been focused on males, with the idea that males and females are similar, differing only in the magnitude of the response. However, the principles
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Although several lines of evidence from different studies highlight sex differences in cardiovascular diseases, to date, most studies have been focused on males, with the idea that males and females are similar, differing only in the magnitude of the response. However, the principles learned in male models cannot and should not be extrapolated to women and, therefore, it is important to study in greater detail not only the differences between the sexes but also the physiological intertwining of the underlying genetic and hormonal mechanisms of sexual dimorphism. This review explores the sex disparities in the autonomic nervous system regulation of blood pressure (particularly baroreceptor function), with special emphasis on sex hormones and sex chromosome complement factors involved in sexually dimorphic autonomic blood pressure regulation. A more detailed understanding of the sources of physiological disparities between the sexes may also help in understanding the differences between the sexes in rates of cardiovascular disease and may also aid in designing future improvements for sex-tailored therapeutic treatments.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Sex Differences, Sexual Development, and Sexual/Reproductive Health)
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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview
Enhancing Comprehensive Sexuality Education for Students with Disabilities: Insights from Ontario’s Educational Framework
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Adam Davies, Justin Brass, Victoria Martins Mendonca, Samantha O’Leary, Malissa Bryan and Ruth Neustifter
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 522-535; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040034 - 17 Oct 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is an important framework utilized worldwide to provide students and young people with accurate, affirming, and socially conscious sexuality education. However, there is still a lack of CSE curricula in school contexts that is relevant for students with various
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Comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is an important framework utilized worldwide to provide students and young people with accurate, affirming, and socially conscious sexuality education. However, there is still a lack of CSE curricula in school contexts that is relevant for students with various disabilities. This article takes the Ontario, Canada, context as an example of where and how CSE can improve to be more inclusive for students with disabilities. This article reviews the current context of CSE in Ontario, Canada, including its controversies, while providing recommendations for meeting the needs of students with various disabilities, including psychological, intellectual, and physical disabilities. This article aims to provide practical recommendations, such as pertinent curricular content and pedagogical recommendations for scholars, researchers, and policymakers for improving CSE for students with disabilities in schooling.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Borderline Personality Features and Mate Retention Behaviors: The Mediating Roles of Suspicious and Reactive Jealousy
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Virgil Zeigler-Hill and Jennifer Vonk
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 507-521; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040033 - 17 Oct 2023
Abstract
We investigated the roles that suspicious jealousy and reactive jealousy might play in the associations between borderline personality features (BPF) and mate retention behaviors. Study 1 (N = 406) found that BPF had positive indirect associations with benefit-provisioning behaviors and cost-inflicting behaviors
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We investigated the roles that suspicious jealousy and reactive jealousy might play in the associations between borderline personality features (BPF) and mate retention behaviors. Study 1 (N = 406) found that BPF had positive indirect associations with benefit-provisioning behaviors and cost-inflicting behaviors through suspicious jealousy but not through reactive jealousy. Study 2 (N = 334 (a dyadic sample of 167 romantic couples)) revealed actor effects such that BPF had positive indirect associations with benefit-provisioning behaviors and cost-inflicting behaviors through suspicious jealousy for both men and women. In addition, the positive association between BPF and benefit-provisioning behaviors was mediated by reactive jealousy in women but not in men. The only partner effect that emerged from these analyses showed that BPF in women were negatively associated with the benefit-provisioning behaviors reported by their male partners. Discussion focuses on the implications of these results for the function that jealousy might serve in the strategies used by individuals with BPF to maintain their romantic relationships.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sexual Behavior and Attitudes)
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Open AccessArticle
Depression and Anxiety among Gay and Bisexual Men: Testing a Mediated Moderation Model of Mindfulness and Adult Attachment
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K. Marie Sizemore, Shannon S. Gray, Steven Samrock, Brett M. Millar, Christian Grov and H. Jonathon Rendina
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 493-506; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040032 - 27 Sep 2023
Abstract
For sexual minority men (SMM), attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance are evidenced to predict poor mental health (e.g., depression and anxiety). While mindfulness is known to mediate this relationship among the general population, it has yet to be examined among SMM. This study
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For sexual minority men (SMM), attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance are evidenced to predict poor mental health (e.g., depression and anxiety). While mindfulness is known to mediate this relationship among the general population, it has yet to be examined among SMM. This study examined the interaction of attachment anxiety and avoidance, and the mediating effect of mindfulness, in predicting symptoms of depression and anxiety among a sample of gay and bisexual men (GBM) in the U.S. We used regression-based path analyses to test the interaction of attachment anxiety and avoidance on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Attachment anxiety and avoidance were positively associated with mental health symptoms. In the model predicting anxiety, we found a significant interaction, indicating that individuals high in attachment anxiety and avoidance had the highest BSI scores. In model 2, direct effects for attachment anxiety and avoidance remained significant, and mindfulness was negatively associated with both mental health symptoms. Significant indirect effects from attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance, through mindfulness, to both depressive and anxiety symptoms were observed. No evidence of mediated moderation was found. Our findings show that attachment is an important predictor of mental health among GBM and support previous research on the mediating role of mindfulness in this association.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sexual Diversity: Orientation, Gender, Identity, and Attraction)
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Open AccessArticle
“Carefully Curated/For Heart and Soul”: Sensing Place Identity in Sex Workplaces
by
Alison L. Grittner
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 473-492; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040031 - 26 Sep 2023
Abstract
In the face of ongoing interpersonal and structural violence towards sex workers in Canada, this research inquiry explores nine women and gender-diverse sex workers’ experiences of place identity within their workplaces. Employing multisensory and arts-based ethnographic fieldwork, the co-researchers storied their embodied place-based
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In the face of ongoing interpersonal and structural violence towards sex workers in Canada, this research inquiry explores nine women and gender-diverse sex workers’ experiences of place identity within their workplaces. Employing multisensory and arts-based ethnographic fieldwork, the co-researchers storied their embodied place-based experiences of identity. The research findings illuminate place-identity processes within sex workplaces, suggesting that the context, materiality, and multisensory atmospheres of the co-researchers’ work environments were entwined with internal and external self-concepts. The co-researchers created personalized multisensory atmospheres in their workplaces through the use of colour, visual art, and music. Having workplaces that positively supported place identity fostered workplace comfort, control, and empowerment. Ultimately, this research suggests that place-identity processes in sex workplaces have the possibility to resist and shift sex work stigma.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding Resilience among People in Sex Work)
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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview
Non-Classic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in Childhood: A Review
by
Giulia Bertolucci, Nina Tyutyusheva, Margherita Sepich, Fulvia Baldinotti, Maria Adelaide Caligo, Maria Rita Sessa, Diego Giampiero Peroni and Silvano Bertelloni
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 462-472; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040030 - 25 Sep 2023
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a heterogeneous group of autosomal recessive disorders due to defects in adrenal steroid biosynthesis. In about 90% of patients, CAH is caused by pathogenetic variants in CYP21A2 gene, impairing the function of 21-hydroxylase (21-OH) enzyme. CAH can present
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Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a heterogeneous group of autosomal recessive disorders due to defects in adrenal steroid biosynthesis. In about 90% of patients, CAH is caused by pathogenetic variants in CYP21A2 gene, impairing the function of 21-hydroxylase (21-OH) enzyme. CAH can present as classical form (simple virilizing or salt wasting) or as non-classical form (NC-CAH). NC-CAH is due to pathogenetic variants in the CYP21A2 gene that result in 20–70% residual activity of 21-hydroxylase. Early diagnosis may be missed, mainly in childhood, jeopardizing long-term outcome. This paper will review some information on clinical findings, symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatments of NC-CAH in childhood, allowing better management and long-term outcome.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Andrology and Urology)
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Open AccessArticle
Masculinity and the Questions of “Is” and “Ought”: Revisiting the Definition of the Notion of Masculinity Itself
by
Ognjen Arandjelović
Sexes 2023, 4(4), 448-461; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes4040029 - 22 Sep 2023
Abstract
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) lists 1571 as the year of the first recorded use of the English word ‘masculinity’; the Ancient Greek (andreia), usually translated as ‘courage’, was also used
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The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) lists 1571 as the year of the first recorded use of the English word ‘masculinity’; the Ancient Greek (andreia), usually translated as ‘courage’, was also used to refer to manliness. The notion of manliness or masculinity is undoubtedly older still. Yet, despite this seeming familiarity, not only is the notion proving to be highly elusive, its understanding by the society being in a constant flux, but is also one which is at the root of bitter division and confrontation, and which has tangible and far-reaching real-world effects. At the same time, while masculinity has been attracting an increasing amount of attention in academia, the large body of published work seldom goes to the very foundations of the issue, failing to explicitly and with clarity reach a consensus as to how masculinity ought to be understood. Herein, I critique the leading contemporary thought, showing it to be poorly conceived and confounded, and often lacking in substance which would raise it to the level of the actionable and constructive. Hence, I propose an alternative view which is void of the observed deficiencies, and discuss how its adoption would facilitate a conciliation between the currently warring factions, focusing everybody’s efforts on addressing the actual ethical, deconfounded of specious distractions.
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(This article belongs to the Section Gender Studies)
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Brain Correlates of Human Sexual Behavior: New Insight on Models, Theories, and Experimental Research
Guest Editors: Nicoletta Cera, Carlotta CogoniDeadline: 31 May 2024