Date of Conferral

8-2-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Susan Marcus

Abstract

Women are not orgasming as often as men in heterosexual sexual encounters. Research has confirmed that sociocultural influences, gender differences, sexual perceptions, sexual miseducation, and relationship dynamics contribute to women’s negative sexual experiences. What has been missing is a better understanding of the experience of the orgasm gap and the role of gender ideology in women’s sexual experiences. This study explored the lived experience of the orgasm gap and gender ideology in nine cisgender women in long-term heterosexual relationships. Critical feminist theory was used as the lens to explore the meaning of sexual inequities in intimate long-term relationships. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), the results indicated that healthy communication, intimacy, and foreplay were necessary for participants’ satisfaction, but many were afraid to express their needs. Their sexual experiences reflected patriarchal societal and religious sexual scripts that shame and control women and emphasize male authority and traditional gender roles. For some, these experiences reflected past trauma. They experienced difficulty orgasming with their partners, and the orgasm gap symbolized broader societal gender inequalities. Many valued relationship equality and embraced their identity where agency and needs are validated yet engaged in unequal dynamics which created cognitive dissonance. Understanding patriarchy’s influence motivated some to redefine their sexuality and identity outside of the hierarchical constraints of the system, advocating for equality and liberation. Implications for positive social change include sharing these findings to empower women in their sexuality and enhance the quality of relationships and life for all genders.

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