The Passion Paradox

Navigating the complexities of sex and relationships

Amy Muise PhD

When Your Partner Wants to Do It—but You Don't

In long-term relationships, most couples encounter times when one partner wants to have sex, but the other isn't in the mood. New research explores this.

How Do Your Reasons for Having Sex Impact Your Relationship?

Not all sexual experiences have the same impact on relationship and sexual satisfaction. A person's reason for having sex matter. Here we discuss the different reasons why people engage in sex with their partner and how these reasons influence both partner's feelings of desire and satisfaction.

What Does It Mean to "Make Sex Normal"?

Although in some ways North American is a highly sexualized culture, we rarely hear about real sexual experiences or feel comfortable talking about sex in our everyday conversations.

Is Sex Allowed to be Important in Romantic Relationships?

In ongoing relationships, romantic partners are bound to have different sexual needs and preferences. Is it controversial to suggest that, at times, a person should prioritize their romantic partner’s sexual needs over their own preferences?

Can Old Love Be New Again?

Although declines in passion are typical over the course of a long-term relationship, this may not be inevitable. Couples can work toward pursuing novel experiences and maintaining excitement in their relationship.

Should You Change Your Sexual Habits for Your Partner?

In romantic relationships partners are bound to have different sexual interests. One partner might like sex in the shower and the other may prefer the bed. At times, changing your sexual habits to a meet a partner's sexual needs is beneficial to the relationship.

Let's Talk About Sex ... During Sex

Do you tell your partner what you like and don't like during sex? Sexual communication in the heat of the moment is linked to more sexual satisfaction.

Are You GGG?

GGG stands for "good, giving, and game," and it's what Dan Savage thinks we should all strive to be as sex partners. Is being GGG beneficial for you and your relationship?

What Are People's Perceptions of Open Relationships?

Recently in the media, we are hearing more about open relationships. What are people's perceptions of non-monogamy, and are these perceptions accurate?

Do People Have More Sex on Vacation?

A vacation provides a break from work or school, a chance to relax and let loose, and the opportunity to explore a new part of the world...but does a vacation also bring more opportunities for sex? Possibly.

The Ins and Outs of Sexual Frequency

One of the questions I frequently get asked as a sex and relationship researcher is how often couples typically engage in sex. How often are most couples having sex and how is it relevant to your relationship?