Female Experience of Sexual Desire As a Function of Sexual Compatibility in an Intimate Relationship‪.‬

ABSTRACT: Although gender differences in sexual desire intensity in heterosexual dyads have been noted in the literature (Hurlbert, 1993), popular belief is that such differences in the desire to engage in sex may influence the sexual compatibility between partners in any relationship. Using a study group of 103 female nurses and a relatively new measure for sexual compatibility, this study provides evidence that the level of sexual compatibility between partners in an intimate relationship can influence the individual's level of sexual desire. This study also explores the influence of externality on both female sexual desire and sexual compatibility, and tests for an effect produced by the interaction of sexual compatibility and belief in powerful others. Locus of control, specifically strength of belief in powerful others, was related to female sexual desire, but not to sexual compatibility in an intimate relationship. Issues raised regarding women's experiences of sexuality in general, and marital sexuality in particular, have become increasingly important to researchers (Apt, Hurlbert & Clark, 1994; Chamie, 1977; Daniluk 1993; Hurlbert, 1991; Hurlbert & Apt, 1993; Taylor, Rosen & Leiblum, 1994). Chamie (1977), for example, in her study of contraception among Lebanese couples, found that women with greater education and higher income were more likely to think of sexual pleasure as being for themselves, as well as for their husbands.