Sexual Desire in Men: A mixed-methods exploration of heterosexual men in Australia

Abstract

Background Low sexual desire in men is one of the most difficult challenges in clinical sexology. It is more complex than initially considered, yet there is a dearth of empirical evidence. The objectives were to determine the prevalence of low sexual desire; identify factors that influence sexual desire in men; assess distress; understand how sexual desire in men is perceived and experienced; identify problems encountered, and issues affecting management of sexual desire in men in Australia. Methods The research was conducted in two stages: quantitative (N=337) and qualitative (N=40) with heterosexual men over the age of 18, in the same relationship for at least 12 months. Women’s perspectives were also included in the qualitative study to better understand what constitutes sexual desire in men and how sexual desire in men is experienced. Results The results showed a wide range in frequency of sexual desire in men over the previous six months, with approximately 15% indicating once every 3-4 weeks. Multiple regression analysis found age, partner’s issues, stress and fatigue, ‘not enjoying sex’ and relational issues as significant predictors of sexual desire. Factor analysis identified three key variables influencing sexual desire: ‘relationship issues’, ‘embarrassment, stress and anxiety’ (ESA) and ‘partner issues’, which the qualitative study also confirmed. The results illustrate the subjective complexity in explaining how men and women define, perceive and experience sexual desire, and what constitutes sexual desire in men. It also describes problems encountered with male sexual desire, regarding distress, desire discrepancy, and vulnerability. Conclusion The study indicates sexual desire for some men is responsive and varies as a function of physical and psychological wellbeing. Low sexual desire appears to be influenced by predisposing, precipitating, maintaining and contextual factors and thus requires an integrated, interdisciplinary approach.