Sexual synchrony: Sexual response as a dyadic process

This PhD research explored whether and how couples “sync up” during sexual interactions to see if their feelings, actions, and even bodily responses align during sex. The studies in this dissertation show that the phenomenon of sexual synchrony may explain why some couples feel more connected and satisfied in their sex lives while others face sexual and relational challenges. By following couples’ day-to-day lives and using experiments, this research highlights how shared desire, intimacy, and partner support affect their sexual connection. It also shows how men and women may experience this differently. These findings can help couples understand and improve their sexual and emotional connection and give therapists better ways to support them in doing so.