Sexual Compliance in Committed Relationships: Motives, Prevalence, and Relational Impact

Objectives: Sexual compliance, defined as engaging in sexual activity without personal desire, is a common but underexplored phenomenon in committed relationships. This study investigated motivations and associations with sexual and relational satisfaction, particularly in culturally conservative contexts shaped by traditional norms. Method: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 675 men and women in committed heterosexual relationships. Participants completed validated measures of sexual compliance, relational motives, and sexual/relationship well-being. Results: 34.4% of participants reported engaging in sex to please their partner, and 13.6% did so out of fear. Sexual compliance, whether motivated by pleasing or fear, was negatively associated with sexual and relationship satisfaction. No significant gender or ethnic differences emerged. Conclusions: This study highlights the overlooked phenomenon of sexual compliance in committed relationships and its link to reduced sexual and relational satisfaction. Whether motivated by pleasing or fear, sex without desire carries emotional and relational costs. Although often normalized, it raises questions about the integrity of consent when desire is absent. These dynamics are especially complex in culturally conservative settings, where internalized norms may blur authentic consent. Findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive interventions, including psychoeducation, therapeutic support, and premarital education.