The discrepancy in sexual desire remains one of the most common yet complex issues treated by sex and relationship therapists. Couples often feel frustrated when their partner desires sex more or less frequently than they do. These frustrations create tension in other areas of the relationship, diminishing relationship satisfaction and increasing conflict within the dyad.

It has long been held that a confluence of factors affects sexual desire. Broadly, therapists consider the influence of biological, psychological, social, and relationship factors that influence one’s desire for sex. Biological factors include things like hormones and physical health. Psychological factors include things like mental health and self-esteem. Relationship factors include things like the degree of relationship conflict, and social factors include the effect of cultural norms, religious beliefs, and gender roles.

People who subscribe to traditional gender roles believe that it is men’s responsibility to provide financially for the family and women’s responsibility to raise children and maintain the household. Men tend to be the lead........

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