By Dr. Justin Lehmiller
In the last decade, sex researchers have shown increasing interest in the possible causes and triggers of “hypersexual” or “out of control” sexual behavior. Among the many factors that have been considered is boredom. (more…)
The Power of Touch: Physical Affection is Important in Relationships, but Some People Need More Than Others
By Dr. Justin Lehmiller
Intimate touch is a vital part of most close relationships.
Study after study has found that couples who touch each other more tend to be happier. From backrubs to gentle caresses to hand-holding to hugging, the more intimate contact couples have with one another, the more satisfied they tend to be with their relationships [1]. (more…)
The Kinsey Institute Interview Series: A Conversation with Dr. Lori Brotto
By Justin Lehmiller
What is a day in the life of a sex researcher like? In this interview series, I talk to some of the world’s foremost authorities on sex in order to answer this question, but also to provide a glimpse into what they’re currently working on, what the media tends to get wrong about sex, and what they think about some of the most pressing issues facing the field of sex research today.
For this interview, I spoke with Dr. Lori Brotto, a clinical psychologist and Professor at the University of British Columbia. Brotto is also the Canada Research Chair in Women’s Sexual Health and she has an extensive body of work that addresses topics including sexual desire, sexual dysfunction and its treatment, and asexuality. (more…)
Dr. William Fisher Named 2020 Recipient of Alfred C. Kinsey Distinguished Researcher Award
The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University is pleased to name Dr. William A. Fisher as the recipient of the 2020 Alfred C. Kinsey Distinguished Researcher Award, which honors renowned scientists and academics who shape our understanding of human sexuality through their sex research. (more…)
How Hormonal Changes During the Menstrual Cycle Affect Women’s—and Men’s—Feelings About Their Relationships
By Justin Lehmiller
Women naturally experience a number of hormonal fluctuations over the course of the menstrual cycle, and we’ve long known that these fluctuations are linked to changes in women’s psychology and behavior.
However, very little research has explored the implications of these hormonal shfits in long-term relationships. So what is the impact of the rise and fall of specific hormones, and how does it affect both partners in a couple? (more…)