Sexuality and commitment

The aim of this article is to investigate the relationship between sexuality and the concept of commitment. Sexuality implies commitment in its erotic, genital and relational aspects. This word can be used differently depending on the context: 1) To bind or pledge oneself morally: total dedication; 2) Commitment to a relationship and the question of duration; 3) The act of committing oneself to a course of action or a project for personal fulfillment; 4) Commitment to fertility in the relationship (perhaps by the birth of a child). It can be useful to identify: 1) Any obstacles to healthy commitment; 2) Inhibiting commitments causing conflicting values; 3) Any fears of commitment and the consequences on the libido. The frequency of complaints about lack of commitment (particularly on the part of men) throws some light on how different the approach of men and women can be, and these differences can be used to develop sex-therapy around these topics. © 2006 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Duke Scholars

Author Christine Elizabeth Marx Psychiatry, Child & Family Mental Health & Community Psychia ...