Psychology So the sexual attraction is retained longer

Researchers are discovering what lust and attraction really is in partnership
At some point in every love relationship the air is out. But there are ways to get the attraction longer. A scientific team of Israeli and American researchers has now found that the reason for this is the variety of needs of both man and woman outside the bedroom. So it's not enough to just be "nice". Instead, the needs of the partner should really be addressed. But most couples do not talk about it openly.

When couples have been together for years, the partner's sexual attraction often diminishes. Researchers have now discovered in an investigation that it can be enough to always be there for each other and to respond to the mutual interests. Support and interest in problems can enhance the partnership and also strengthen the attraction. The physicians published the results of their study in the journal "Journal of Personality and Social Psychology".

How can the attraction of long-term partnerships be preserved? This was investigated by a scientific team in the course of a study. Image: zinkevych - fotolia

Study examines hundreds of couples
Hundreds of couples participated in the study. They all had to keep a journal for a period of three weeks. In the book, they then talk about their sexual desire and, in addition, their perceptions of their partner's response and behavior, the researchers explain.

Know the emotional needs of your partner
Our research has shown that couples who interact more outside of the bedroom are better able to sustain their cravings, says co-author Professor Gurit Birnbaum. If you are always approachable and know the emotional needs of your spouse, this shows a deep understanding of the partner.

Get on each other and always give your support
Sure, it's important to be nice in a relationship. However, this behavior does not specifically address the partner and may ignore the interests or problems of the person we live with, says Professor Birnbaum. It is therefore even more important to respond to the partner, to know his interests and concerns exactly. Also, common interests and activities or even common housework can improve sexual desire.

Be the best buddy of your partner
If you always go through the thick and thin with the partner and are there for him, the relationship feels special and unique, explain the authors. As a result, the other person will be appreciated and desirable, which in turn will result in the sexual attraction being preserved. If you feel that your partner is about your best buddy and you can tell him everything, they are on the right track, the experts explain. Of course, this does not only apply to young couples, but older people who are not so keen on physical love can benefit from more attention and responsiveness.

High responsiveness increases cohesion and desire
The so-called responsiveness is something of a special form of intimacy. In relationships it is so important because it signals the real interest of the partner in his well-being, say the doctors. If partners are affected by the well-being of the other and really want to be openly informed about the partner's concerns, this increases the cohesion and also the desire for the partner, add the physicians.

Increase the intimacy
Sexual desire lives on intimacy. If this is increased, the desire for the partner also increases. So, one of the best ways to get more sexual desire is not great sex, but the elusive sense of responsiveness. (As)