More sex – more earnings

A recent study with data compiled by Nick Drydakis, a lecturer at the Institute for the Study of Labor, a private research firm, may be evidence of a trend that may encourage more people to have sex more often. The study showed evidence that if people who have sex at least 4 times each week, they are more likely to earn more money. There are some areas of conflict and concern to still understand with this claim, but it is an intriguing thought with some common sense behind it.

The study was conducted over a year with Greek households being the main subjects.  There were over 7000 households that took part in a survey that included basic questions about people in the household. Such questions included how much income is earned, how often did they have sex, and if they were employed. They were also asked how often they engage in sexual activity. Now, those who were part of the study want to make something clear: having more sex may not actually turn into more money.

There are other aspects of the study that was noticed that came to the conclusion of more sex and more earnings. It seems that people who have sex more often were happier or more comfortable with their well-being. Researchers found that those who didn’t have sex as frequently were more likely to be depressed or were not as physically productive. There were people who seemed to make less money and likely to experience health issues or even discrimination when trying to gain employment.

So in a way, you could say that if you are sexually active, you are likely to be in a better mood.  In this sense, researchers say you may be healthier and this aspect allows you to make more money.  Few even think people who earn more have higher self-esteems. Another aspect to think about includes the dating market.  If you earn more money you are more likely to be desirable.

The research looked at people between the ages of 26 and 50. Researchers claim that those in this age bracket may be more likely to have a higher return sexually if they are working. But, at the same time, researchers don’t want people getting carried away and running to hit the sheets.  It doesn’t matter if you are straight or gay, but the study suggests that having more sex could help you feel better about yourself.

In a way, the study is nothing new because sex has been known to have advantages. In this sense, it included looking at household income and sexual activity. In a way it makes sense, if you have a good sex life you may feel better about yourself, especially when you are in the company of someone you really care about. Yet, investing in doing more sexual activity can be an interesting aspect to consider with your significant other or spouse.

Acts of Violence Facing Westminster Sex Workers

A recent research study reviews health and wellbeing risks facing prostitutes (also known as sex workers) in the Westminster area.  The Sex Worker task force has found additional evidence that suggests more violence is being experienced among sex workers that has become a local and national concern.  Such evidence suggests sex workers are more likely to experience violent robbery attempts, sexual assault and rape. The task force also believes that such violence is being committed at higher rates, yet victims may be too afraid to report it after it happens.

The task force was developed in July 2012 with a purpose in conducting exercises to help understand the wellbeing and health of sex workers in different areas such as mental and sexual health, substance abuse, trafficking, violence, and exploitation risk.  One aspect of this study was to review how to reduce the violent crimes being committed against sex workers and how can it be done on a wider scale?  In this sense, researchers had to understand the nature of sex work being done, get an idea of how to prioritize health needs and wellbeing of sex workers, gain views on the subject matter from authorities such as the London Metropolitan Police and Westminster City Council to name a few, and research and develop recommendations.

Most sex workers engage in sexual activity for exchange for payment, either in money or drugs.  Different areas of Westminster were reviewed to understand the types of sex services were being practiced.  Some were street-based sex work with women being between 30 and 40 years old. Their backgrounds varied with some being homeless or gang-related, while being of British or Romanian decent.  Off street sex workers were also reviewed.  In this case, they may be an individual who performs sex services in the privacy of their home, a rented room, or as a “maid.” Off street sex workers may offer more services, but researchers learned that many have reduced their costs in recent years.  This may be in attempt to gain more clients who can’t afford to make higher payments.   Such workers may be putting themselves at a higher risk of danger by accepting more clients for less money.  Male and transgender workers were also part of the research, while sex workers of this nature are somewhat rare in Westminster.

Research showed 22 percent of transgender sex workers experience violence; 13 percent of non-transgender female sex workers may experience violence.  Many sex workers who choose not to report a violent act have lack of trust in the police, fear being identified by the public, uneasy about the court process, fear getting arrested and have mounting fears about daily survival (reporting the crime may not be a priority).

While there are help opportunities for sex workers, research shows sex workers need more encouragement in order to prevent violent acts against them.  Forming a partnership with multi-agencies, continued awareness of the issue, empowering sex workers through language courses for migrant workers, and learning more about police policies may help provide clarity and motivation for sex workers. Certain areas of Westminster have seen improvement in sexual violence reporting with conviction rates rising, but the task force feels more action should be explored.  Additional measures are being explored to prevent offenders from re-offending after serving time.

Responses Made by Female College Students Regarding Sexuality

A recent study reviews survey responses of female college students who completed Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire (MSQ) and Heterosexual Contact Scale (HCS) questionnaire.  The questions were completed by women who may or may not initiate sexual contact with men.  Women who didn’t initiate sexual contact scored lower on the MSQ in relation to factors such as sexual self-esteem and satisfaction.  Factors such as geographic variations, anxiety and depression may be reasons why some scored lower than others.

A reason behind why this study was conducted includes getting a better understanding of sexual aggression experienced by college students.  This includes reviewing hostility and how it is directed toward peers and those of the opposite sex.  Some researchers claim the issue may have been a problem for some as early as adolescence.

The MSQ measures different factors and how they relate to sexuality such as anxiety, assertiveness, fear, satisfaction and more (12 factors are measured in total).  Women often scored higher on fear while males who complete a similar questionnaire score higher on aspects such as self-esteem, motivation and assertiveness. The HSC reviewed sexual experiences or relationships from an individual’s past.   The study also helped to gain some understanding of how relationships were affected depending on a person’s location, age when they first had sex and how many partners they have had during their lifetime.

The idea was to learn if whether a woman’s past sexual experiences may or may not have an influence on how she initiates sexual contact with another person.  Women who used persuasive strategies were thought to have scored higher on certain areas of the questionnaire such as satisfaction and self-esteem.  Women who participated in the study were from rural and southern college universities, with over 500 taking part. The women were married, divorced, cohabiting or single.

The questionaries’ help researchers learn the tendencies of the women in how they become absorbed with sexual thoughts.  Other factors they were asked about include what kind of desire they had to be in a sexual relationship, tension toward sexuality, public impression of sexuality, whether or not human sexuality can be controlled from an outside source and fears in relation to engaging in sexual relations with another person.  Sexual strategies were also explored including persuasive, forceful, physical and non-physical types (massages, dancing, perfume, etc.).

The questionnaire was given to participants as a packet they took home to complete.  There were differences in different subject areas with those using force scoring higher on factors such as sexual esteem and sexual consciousness.  Those who claimed to use non-physical coercion scored higher on sexual preoccupation, anxiety and motivation.  In the end, researchers felt that women who didn’t initiate sexual contact scored lowered on motivation and sexual preoccupation factors.  It may be perceived that women who scored lower in this area may forgo personal satisfaction.  Yet, certain aspects of this study were shown to be inconsistent with a similar study conduct in the past.  Researchers have agreed that factors such as women’s motivation and sexual preoccupation should be studied on its own.

Connection between Body Fragrance and Sexual Orientation

Researchers study the significance of body odor and why it is an important factor in relation to sexual attraction.  The purpose of the study includes investigating differences of body odors and fragrances between males and females.  The idea was to learn what smells turn on men, women and their sexual partners.  Heterosexual men, women, gays and lesbians participated in the study with floral sweet scents and musky-spicy scents being most common.

Throughout history researchers have known for fragrances to play a role in human attraction.  This also includes a person’s unique body odor.  It is understandable that certain odors act as a form of communication between different species.  Earlier studies often looked at how men and women use fragrances to increase their attraction potential to the opposite sex or as a way to attract a mate.  In short, men often had an odor that would attract a woman, and a woman would have an odor that attracts a man (with males and females in this scenario being heterosexual).

For this study over 500 people participated; it included over 400 females and 150 males. The study was approved and reviewed by a Catholic university in the state of Florida. They completed an online survey that was also advertised on social networking sites. Most people who participated identified themselves as being heterosexual, yet there were a handful of gays, lesbians and bisexual women who supplied data.  Age ranges of participants were between 18 and 67 years old.  Ethnic backgrounds of participants were mixed including Whites, African Americans, Mixed Race, Asian and Caribbean to name a few.

The study included reviewing different types of scents and popular fragrances for males and females.  Herbal, honey, sweet, fruity, rich, leather, oriental, floral and a variety of others were asked about (a total of 18 types of scents were included).  Each person was asked to rate each scent with 1 being very little and 7 being very much as far as their personal preference.  As far as each fragrance, they were asked if they preferred it for themselves and/or their sexual/romantic partners.

For self-odor preferences honey, floral, sweet, spicy and oriental were a few top picks.  All of the odors included were later divided into factors to get a better idea of their affects.  For their partner, musky, sweet, floral, fruity, lavender, woody and lemon were a few top picks of preference.  Certain scents seem to have a stronger preference for those who are gay and lesbian.

Out of the 18 types of fragrances used in the study, researchers narrowed them down to 2 groups: musky-spicy and floral-sweet.  Researchers found that either men or woman who had a certain odor preference for themselves may have a different view of what they prefer for their partner.  Overall, a scent men and women seemed to prefer for themselves was citrus.  Women may find the scent appealing but men may not see it as a turn-off.

Relation between Feminism and Pornography

A study looks at controversial expressions related to pornography and feminism.  In some cases the findings in such studies are interpreted or reported in different ways that may have a negative effect on how details are perceived.  In this case factors are reviewed such as why pornography is debated among feminists, literature that criticizes the matter and lasting effects of research completed on the subject.  In short, some researchers feel there should be ongoing studies on the subject or pornography but with attention to sensitivity.

Pornography in a sense may or may not be taken seriously by some, with few researchers feeling it has something to do with the way it is reported.  Sexual aggression, sexual assaults and violent pornography have been reported in varying numbers, especially situations involving females.  It has been mentioned that feminists have made notable contributions to the study of pornography including social and psychological effects, with some feminists being against pornography.

Those who are against pornography have certain points they express such as how mainstream pornography uses abusive concepts against or toward women that seem degrading, how there could be a connection against men who commit sexual violence against women and men who may have been exposed to violent or degrading pornography, whether or not there is a definitive relationship between porn and sexual violence and sex-work industries that may have high levels of coercion or working in situations considered dangerous, including being exposed to drug and alcohol abuse among porn performers.

Anti-feminists feel the risks porn performers face related to production and consumption is much greater than public criticism.  Certain reactions from an anti-feminist may show how they feel or believe about porn such as disgust, fear, and outrage.  Some feel there is more harm done when concepts related to porn is not publicize, but criticized.  In short, some feel pornography isn’t taken as seriously as it should by understanding the possible negative factors it may have on a person.  Yet, feminist continue to argue on what kind of position they should have on this subject.

Criticism on the topic may have women feeling insecure or shame with the idea of having sexual fantasies being played out.  In some situations, it may be seen as a woman being a victim in their relationships with their male partner.   While there are some controversial arguments, many feel feminists made some valid points on the issue of pornography.  In some cases, many of these claims are reviewed or overlooked.  But, some feel that any research completed on the subject of pornography may not include perspectives or angles that are brought up by feminists.

There are a few points that tend to stand out about the matter that some feel should be reviewed in more detail such as the claims of potential harm (whether it’s physical, emotional or mental) being ignored,  and looking at emotional reactions as just theories of researchers instead of getting a better understanding from both sides (getting a male and female point of view or perspective on certain pornographic actions).

How Often Men Engage in Sex with Prostitutes

A study reviewed sexual habits and sexual behaviors of men who have sex with prostitutes.  Researchers collected a wide variety of information to learn more about why men engage in sexual activity with prostitutes.  The concept of someone selling their body for sexual pleasure or money is usually the subject of discussion.  Yet, researchers who conducted this study felt the emphasis on why men engage in this activity is not explored much as it should.  The idea of the study is to get a better understanding in the role of men, why they may do this and if they have elevated sexual tendencies (sexual wants and needs getting met).

Researchers have learn different perspectives and possible motives for men engaging in sex with prostitutes.  Some claim it is possible a man may pay to have sex with a woman if they are inexperienced or looking to be introduced to sexual concepts for the first time.  It may be a way for a male to sexually express himself.  Few men say they may not be happy sexually if they are in a relationship.

Over 1,300 men participated in the study.  Many were participating in some sort of intervention program in their hometown.  The men were or have been arrested for engaging in prostitution at one point.  Men are residents of western areas of the United States including California and Nevada.  Their ages range from 18 to 80 with the average being 38.  More than 70 percent claim to have college education.  Men were of different ethnic backgrounds including Caucasian, African American, Hispanic and Asian. Close to 40 percent were married with over 85 percent having part- or full-time employment.

Men who participated answered a questionnaire that covered different subject areas. Men were asked about their relationship status, how often they had sex, how often with a prostitute, sexual behaviors and other relevant information. Questions included: when was the last time they had sex, how often did they have sex within the last 12 months, how many times a week, and so on.  They were also asked if they had been sexually touched as a child, if their parents were divorced and if they had a history of serving in the military.

Previous studies lean toward the notion that men encounter prostitutes often but some researchers believe prostitutes may not be the main sexual outlet exercised by men.  Most of the men admitted to being with a prostitute more than once, some more than 5 times.  Close to 20 percent claimed they have sex 3 times weekly and close to 23 percent claim they have sex 3 times per month.  Yet, when asked how often they engage in sex with prostitute, close to 50 percent claimed it was about once a month.  Some admitted to rough sex, being shy with women, or having trouble with their partner.  Overall, the study was meant to get a better understanding of sexual influences, activities and behaviors of men who pay to have sex with a prostitute.  Motivations for men engaging in the activity vary.

Sex Behaviors of College Students

Researchers conducted a study that reviews recreational sexual activities engaged by college students.  The study included reviewing sexual behaviors done for leisure verse pleasure.  Data collected may help provide intervention methods to help young adults, such as college students, reduce risky sexual activities.  Professionals such as sex educators, healthcare providers and even the general public may provide valuable information and awareness.

A public health concern includes people engaging in sexual activity before marriage.  Young people getting pregnant and dealing with sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) are issues with alarming statistics. It has been noted that young individuals are likely to begin experimenting with their sexuality during college.  More students are likely to have a desire or interest to engage in sex.

Undergraduate university students were asked several questions about their sexual behaviors.  The school is located in the United States in the southeastern region with over 17,000 enrollees.  The questions were part of a self-report questionnaire. Students were able to remain anonymous while submitting their information.  Males and females participated in the study with a variety of ethnic backgrounds included. Students under the age of 25, considered either homosexual or single were asked to participate.  A higher percentage of females submitted data.

The questionnaire was developed to learn attitudes and behaviors related to recreational sex.  Some of the information on the survey was similar content asked in previous surveys conducted. 18 elements in the survey attitudes toward sex as recreation and 11 elements were used to help measure sex as satisfaction.  Depending on statements asked on the survey students would agree or disagree.

Statements asked based on considering sex as recreation included learning whether a student makes time for sex-related activity and if they felt their peers knew more about sex in general compared to personal knowledge.  They were also asked if they liked to enjoy new sensations or experiences.  When asked about sex satisfaction subject matter such as how satisfying is their orgasms to how their partner makes them feel.  There was a separate scale for leisure satisfaction with 24 items used to measure. This included asking about leisure activities in general, if they help reduce stress and skills used in completing these activities (not sexually related). Other sexual behaviors such as protection measures, masturbation, intercourse, erotic material use and strip clubs were asked about.

Students who were enrolled in health education courses participated in cross-sectional research.  Close to 500 students provided information for the study.  Recreational sex may have a positive influence on sexual satisfaction, data showed.  Studies also showed males and females who participated in recreational sex experienced enhanced satisfaction.  The study was completed for multiple reasons: little scientific literature explores this subject, understanding the impact of sexual behaviors in regards to satisfaction and leisure and measuring impacts experienced among young people. In some cases, females preferred certain activities more than others with similar findings in males.

In short, sex continues to have a big influence on college campuses mostly for enjoyment. Further studies will likely continue on the subject to get more understanding of different concepts to help develop healthy alternatives to reduce sexually-related risks.

Attitudes Relative to Partnered and Other Sexual Behavior

Understanding of Sexual Needs

Research data collected from Southern California University participants’ reviews needs of sexual intimacy. The study is also known as NSIS (Needs for Sexual Intimacy Scale).  Different sexual issues were reviewed during the study including sexual desires, sexual attitudes and sexual awareness.  Males were viewed to have higher levels of sexual needs and desires compared to females, but the study takes a look at different concepts on a broader scale. This is due to sexual intimacy being seen as more than just meeting desires and motivations, according to researchers.

Over 400 male and female college students from Southern California University took part in the study. Most students who were part of the study claim they had sexual intercourse at least once. The students ranged from different ethnic backgrounds with many claiming to have had multiple sexual partners between the ages of 18 and 46.  Most of the students who participated were female.  Several admitted to being in a casual relationship while taking part in the study.

The study included rating over 20 sexual needs and they were rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1disagree definitely and 5 agree definitely.  The survey content featured phrases and descriptions that detailed sexual needs or general ideas.  Participants would rate each of these concepts accordingly.  Examples included “…to have more sex” and “…a partner I can manipulate.”  Certain areas related to dominance, sex. And affiliation saw higher scores.  The study also reviewed sexual orientation to get an idea if individuals would engage in sexual events without commitment.  Sexual awareness topics such as sexual monitoring, sexual assertiveness and sex appeal were also reviewed.

Details from different parts of the study were compared to earlier research findings to get an idea of shifts and changes.  Attitudes and relationships were also accessed such as “friends with benefits.” The study also reviewed intimacy-related measures including a game-playing love style that many claimed they enjoyed engaging in when sexual desires were present.  Males reported higher needs for sex than females, yet the findings revealed that men and women seemed to be aware of sexual needs quite often.  Those who claimed to not see a problem with having friendships with benefits seemed to have higher sexual desires or a greater sexual need.

Certain sexual behaviors seemed to have different connections. Some who felt the need for dominance may or may not have an unrestricted sexuality or openness to sex.  Romance didn’t always have a positive effect or association when it came to sexual needs. Content from the study may help researchers understand human sexuality, its relationship to intimacy and associated behaviors that result.  In the past, sexual needs and desires were found to be related to risky sexual behaviors such as failing to disclose an STD (sexual transmitted disease) to their partner prior to sexual activity.  Yet, results related to this study have researchers believing people may not practice safe sex as often or be tested for STDs regularly.  Those who may report having fewer sexual partners were less likely to use protection.

The diagram below shows participant answers where 65.4% were female from 18-46 year-old when another 34.6% were male 18-46 year-old.

Oral Sex Void Study

Researchers survey close to 6,000 people regarding personal views on oral sex.  People surveyed included married men and men who are in a relationship. When it comes to the subject of oral sex, some men believe other couples may do it more or less than others.  About 34 percent of men who took part in the study claim they would seek a secret partner if they were not getting oral sex.  Close to 8 percent of men claim they would pay someone for oral sex.  While men who participated in the study are married or in a relationship, men of the same status who wouldn’t considered seeking oral sex from someone outside of their relationship was also part of the study (referred to as the controlled group).

Some of the males who took part in the study are members of the controversial online dating site Ashleymadison.com.  The site helps married individuals find a date.  Women were also part of the study with those being between the ages of 35 and 49.  Men who took part in the study were between the ages of 40 and 59.  Data collected from the study shows men who are members of the adult dating site were 2 times more likely than those in a controlled group to seek a secret lover if their spouse claims they didn’t want to engage in oral sex.  Close to 40 percent of males who are members of Ashleymadison.com admit to having an affair.  Close to 22 percent of male members surveyed claim they would consider an affair.

Some of the females who took part in the study are members of Ashleymadison.com as well.  Yet, researchers felt women who were engaging in online dating activity with the site were more experienced when it came to having an affair.  Some of the men who use the site may not be as experienced in having an affair; they see the site as a tool to fuel the fantasy or explore the possibility.  Some women who use the site may even say it helps sustain their marriage or committed relationship.

The research study also reviewed possible connections of infidelity in the United States, including media reactions from political figures and celebrities who were caught cheating.  Supposedly, the study claims more than 80 percent of cultures from around the world support polygamy.  At the same time, there seems to be a growing interest in having an affair or more people considering one.

The survey titled “Sex and Relationship Happiness Survey,” was completed by participants between summer 2010 and spring 2001.  Over 4,600 people from Ashleymadison.com completed the survey in spring 2011 alone.  Just over 1,000 people part of the controlled group submitted a survey.  Half of those who responded to the survey claim they are monogamous.  Other areas of interest the research study reviewed included sexual activities regarded as a necessity for a successful relationship, attitudes toward oral sex, the happiness of their marriage or relationship and personal sexual activities.

Results

Attitudes Toward Sex Oral

Relationship Agreements

Contraceptives at US College Health Facilities

Researchers collected data from various college universities throughout the United States to learn about contraceptive availability among college campus health centers.  The study included reviewing available types of contraceptives, emergency contraceptives and service availability for sexually transmitted infections.  Different factors were considered including college population, types of sexually transmitted diseases, demographics and more.  The findings may help develop additional health solutions for college campuses across the United States in the future.

Over 350 college campuses and universities were included in the study.  Before data was collected researchers obtain special permission from colleges and universities to obtain information.  This included mailing and emailing questionaries’ to over 1000 colleges and universities.  358 of the questionaries’ were returned to researchers.  Information collected from colleges and universities that participated in the study included a wide range of topics regarding sexual health services provided through their student health center. Topics assessed included prescription and non-prescription contraceptives, sexual transmitted infection (STI) vaccines offered (such as Hepatitis B and HPV), testing availabilities for STI’s, and post-sexual assault services.

The types of colleges and universities that participated in the study include those that offer master, associates, professional, doctoral and baccalaureate degrees.  Several of the institutions were all female, historical black colleges and universities and medical schools. Demographics of the schools included different backgrounds including suburbs, rural and small town information.  Types of schools included private and public institutions.

Data collected from the schools show a variety of contraceptives are made available to college and university students including vaginal rings, emergency contraceptive pills, oral contraceptives, cervical caps, diaphragms and more. Some schools may only choose to provide certain forms of contraceptives based on faith beliefs.   School populations seemed to have an effect on types of sexual health services offered according to research data.

For instance, a school with a student body population less than 10,000 may not offer as many different types of HIV testing as a school with 25,000 or more students.  Researchers have learned a variety of factors and came up with pertinent key points.  Data collected shows colleges and universities across the United States are adapting well to change when it comes to providing sexual health services.  Many schools have adapted to innovative solutions where sexual health is concerned. There were some findings researchers felt was below or less than what is expected.  Some health centers provide a limited amount of STI services and a higher than expected amount of schools provide mostly oral contraceptives such as the pill.  Less than half of the schools provide a considerable amount of non-hormonal contraceptive solutions.

Data collected provided significant insight regarding a number of sexual services being provided.  This study was in line with findings made from similar studies conducted in the past. There are big differences noticed in which schools offer condoms and how many are distributed annually.  In recent years the Supreme Court has passed prevention provisions for colleges and universities; findings from studies such as this one will provide benchmarks in making sure contraceptive and STI services are made available to students.

According to this research, more than 70.8% of college students have had vaginal, oral and anal sex with at least one partner over the last 12 months. Among these active students 60.6% used birth control pills to prevent pregnancy. 16% of participants had used emergency contraceptive pills within the last 12 months.

Hormonal, and Non-Hormonal Contraception Prescriptions