AGE AND GENDER DIFFERENCES IN SEXUAL-BEHAVIOR PREFERENCES - A FOLLOW-UP REPORT

This study extends prior research on gender differences in sexual beha vior preferences. The authors administered the 6-factor Inventory of D yadic Heterosexual Preferences (IDHP)(1) to 76 married or cohabiting c ouples (mean age 35 years). Their preference patterns were compared to similar data obtained previously(2) from younger (mean age = 21 years ), single respondents. Gender differences that were replicated include d women's stronger preferences for romantic foreplay and men's greater erotophilia and preferences for using erotica and combining alcohol a nd drug use with sex. Women's stronger conventionality was not replica ted among older partners, both of whom were less conventional than the ir younger counterparts. Older men and women were also more inclined t oward the use of erotica. Unlike younger men, older men were more nega tive toward the use of contraception. Implications for sexual safety, adjustment, communication, and therapy are discussed.