Angry Sexuality: A New Phenomenon?
The term “angry” sexual behavior is often used loosely or even pejoratively. Many people believe that it is just another form of exhibitionism, which may or may not be harmful to one’s partner. However, some research suggests otherwise. Research on the topic shows that angry sexual behaviors are associated with increased risk for several sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). These include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B. There is also evidence that these behaviors increase the likelihood of HIV transmission.
In addition to STDs, there are other risks associated with angry sexual behavior such as depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, there is some evidence that these behaviors may lead to lower levels of satisfaction with life.
What Are Some Examples of Angry Sexual Behavior?
Exhibitionism – An individual engages in an act of self-stimulation (such as masturbating or exposing body parts) without regard for others. Exhibiting oneself sexually may be done out of boredom, frustration, anger or jealousy. For example, a man might expose his genitals while talking to a woman he doesn’t like.
Voyeurism – An individual engages in the act of spying on others who are either partially or completely undressed. This might be done by peeping through a door or window to catch a glimpse of someone naked or engaging in sexual activity. It can also include looking at people during these activities without their knowledge. Many times, it is impossible to know if someone is voyeuristic unless they are caught in the act.
Exhibitionistic-Voyeurism – Exhibitionistic-voyeurism refers to a person who is aroused by exposing themselves and watching others expose themselves. The major difference between exhibitionism and voyeurism is that exhibitionists want to be seen, while voyeurs want to see. Voyeuristic acts can include many different things. These include watching a couple have sexual relations, watching an individual undress or engaging in sexual activity. An example of this is a man masturbating while watching a couple have sexual relations through their window.
Sexual Assault – This is an umbrella term that refers to any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior. This includes unwanted touching, grabbing, fondling and/or groping someone else. It can also include attempted forced sexual penetration such as penetration of the mouth or genitalia.
Rape – This involves engaging in sexual activity with a person who does not consent. It includes unwanted touching, grabbing, fondling and/or penetration of the genitalia or other orifice.
What are common risk factors for angry sexual behavior?
Most of these behaviors are more prevalent among men, but women may suffer from them as well. While there are a number of risk factors that can lead to angry sexual behavior, they fall into four main categories: psychological problems, substance abuse, relationship problems and gender issues. Here are some of the common factors that can lead to angry sexual behavior.
Being male – While angry sexual behavior can happen in both men and women; it is believed that it is more common among men. It is thought that this might be due to social expectations that men should always want to have sexual activity. This leads many to believe that men who do not have a strong desire for sexual activity may suffer from low self-esteem or feel as if they have a problem.
Unhealthy sexual practices – Many people who have angry sexual behavior often engage in dangerous sexual practices. These might include engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners, not using condoms, having multiple concurrent sexual diseases or engaging in bizarre and extreme sexual practices. While this is common among both men and women, it is more common among men. It is believed that this might be due to the fact that men are socialized to feel as if they have to be sexually dominant.
Relationship problems – Many people who have angry sexual behavior suffer from significant relationship issues. These can include difficulty with intimacy, trust and a fear of commitment. Some therapists believe that this might be due to the idea of conditioning. If a person has been abused or has engaged in angry behavior during their childhood, they may learn that having sexual activity is a way of controlling others or escape frustration and this behavior might be reinforced over time.
Unresolved mental health issues – Many people who suffer from angry sexual behavior may be dealing with a number of mental health issues. This can include depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Some people might not even realize that they have a mental health condition. It is common for people to associate mood symptoms with the normal ups and downs of life rather than a diagnosable mental illness.
Not all people who suffer from angry sexual behavior have a mental illness or unhealthy relationship patterns. It is important to find a health care provider that can give you a proper diagnosis and offer the best treatment options for your unique needs.
If you suffer from angry sexual behavior, it is important to get help on working on any issues that might be contributing to this behavior.
Sources & references used in this article:
Delusions of gender: The real science behind sex differences by AR Damasio – 1999 – Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
The social meanings behind male sex work: Implications for sexual interactions by C Fine – 2005 – books.google.com
Anger disorders: Basic science and practice issues by J Browne, V Minichiello – British Journal of Sociology, 1995 – JSTOR
The sober truth: Debunking the bad science behind 12-step programs and the rehab industry by H Kassinove, DG Sukhodolsky – Issues in comprehensive pediatric …, 1995 – Taylor & Francis
