Most often, a lack of passion in marriage is initiated by the man, according to the Journal of Sex Research. To determine who is more likely to abstain from sex, British researchers examined the results of 64 previous studies on marital relationships.
Data analysis confirmed that men are the ones who most often choose to abstain from sex. They are driven by a variety of factors, but not the length of the relationship, as previously thought. The primary reason is peer pressure.
There's a societal stereotype that men “always want it.” Therefore, many men feel obligated to initiate sexual contact, even when they're not feeling it or wanting it. They constantly worry about whether they'll be able to have sex. And they're convinced that a lack of it could affect their relationship.
At the same time, men are just as concerned about their appearance as women and need a strong emotional connection. Insecurities or tension between partners also impact male sexual performance. If a partner puts pressure on him, it often only makes matters worse.
Scientists emphasize that desire, especially in long-term relationships, isn't necessarily constant. It's normal for it to come in waves: it intensifies and then fades. And there's no need to try to fit into stereotypes.