Involuntary celibacy: A life course analysis

Using a life course perspective, we explored the development and maintenanc e of in voluntary celibacy for 82 respondents recruited over the I'nternet. Data were collected using an open-ended electronic questionnaire. Modified grounded theory analysis yielded three groups of involuntary celibates, pe rsons desiring to have sex but unable to find partners. Virgins were those who had never had sex, singles had sex in the past but were unable to estab lish current sexual relationships, and partnereds were currently in sexless relationships. These groups differed on dating experiences, the circumstan ces surrounding their celibacy, barriers to sexual activity, and the percei ved likelihood of becoming sexually active. They were similar, however, in their negative reactions to celibacy. Pervasive in our respondents' account s was the theme of becoming and remaining off time in making normative sexu al transitions, which in turn perpetuated a celibate life course or traject ory.