Sexual  Well-Being in Long Distance Relationships

I am collaborating with my doctoral student, Kaitlyn Goldsmith, on a study of sexual well-being in long distance relationships. Despite the unique challenges associated with maintaining a long distance relationship (LDR) compared to a geographically close relationshp (GCR), most researchers have found that individuals in the two types of relationships report similar relationship satisfaction and stability. However, little is known about the impact of being in an LDR on satisfaction with the sexual aspects of the relationship. 

Individual in both LDRs and GCRs engage in behaviours aimed at ensuring their survival. These "relationship maintenance behaviours" have been linked to higher relationship satisfaction. In our research, we are examining a parallel framework of "sexual maintenance behaviours" and their effects on sexual and relationship satisfaction in LDRs and GCRs.

We have completed one study and are currently in the data collection phase of a second study.

Here are our Presentations  Based on This Work

Goldsmith, K. M., & Byers, E. S. (2015, October). Does absence make the sex grow hotter? Sexual satisfaction in long-distance relationships. Paper presented at the meeting of the Canadian Sex Research Forum, Kelowna, B.C.

Goldsmith, K.M., & Byers, E. S. (2015, November). Sexuality of women in long-distance and geographically close relationships. Poster presented at the meeting of the Society for the Scientific Sudy of Sexuality, Albuquerque, NM.