Sexuality is a vital aspect of human life, and it can determine to a great extent a person’s self-esteem, identity, and self-worth. However, in the society we live in, social status has a significant impact on individual sex life.

Social status is the measure of a person’s or a group’s accessibility to resources such as education, wealth, and power, among others. In this article, we will explore the impact of social status on sex life and how it affects individuals and the society at large.

Socioeconomic status and sex life

Socioeconomic status (SES) is a measure of an individual’s or group’s social and economic position in society. It is determined by the level of education, income, occupation, and wealth, among other factors.

Research has shown that socioeconomic status has an impact on the quality and quantity of sex life, as individuals in higher levels of social status have better sexual health outcomes than those in lower socioeconomic status.

People in the higher social echelons report higher rates of orgasm, greater numbers of sexual partners, and conduct themselves in sexual practices considered as risk, such as unprotected sex.

The most probable explanation for this correlation is that people in higher social statuses have better access to information, health care, and education, which they use to inform their sexual decisions. Also, they have greater control over their environment and are more likely to be assertive in their sexual relationships than their counterparts in lower social status.

In higher social classes, sex is viewed as an activity that is enjoyable. They view sex as something that contributes to their happiness and is essential in the maintenance of healthy relationships.

It is viewed as a stress reliever and a way to maintain intimacy between partners. The availability of resources and information explains their perception and expectation of sex.

People in higher classes also have higher expectations regarding their partners’ sexual performance, and they expect their partners to be experienced, sensual, and responsive to their needs.

They invest in their partners’ sexual pleasure and consider it a vital part of their relationships.

People in lower social status perceive sex quite differently from those in higher social status. They often view sex negatively and see it as a means of reproduction, a duty to their partner or a way to earn money or exchange favors.

Often, their access to resources and information is limited, and as a result, their perceptions and expectations of sex are influenced by their environment.

Studies show that people in lower social status have low self-esteem and are less assertive in their sexual relationships. They may not negotiate with their partners on matters related to sex, leading them to engage in risky sexual behaviors.

The lack of access to quality education and health care affects their sexual health and reproductive outcomes.

Sexual orientation is part of an individual’s identity and, as such, has an impact on social status. In most societies, individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ tend to have low social status compared to their counterparts.

This is due to societal stigmatization and discrimination based on sexual orientation.

LGBTQ+ persons report high rates of sexual dysfunction, anxiety, and depression, compared to heterosexual individuals. They may have lower self-esteem and a lack of access to quality health care, leading to poor sexual health outcomes.

Additionally, they may face difficulties in accessing sex education and sexual health services due to stigmatization, which can lead to risky sexual practices and sexually transmitted infections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social status has a significant impact on sex life.

Individuals in higher social status have better sexual health outcomes, are more assertive in their sexual relationships, and have higher expectations of their partners’ sexual performance. On the other hand, people in lower social status have limited access to resources and information, making them vulnerable to risky sexual practices and poor sexual health outcomes.

Sexual orientation also has an impact on social status, with LGBTQ+ persons facing stigmatization, discrimination, and limited access to sexual health services. It is necessary to address the impact of social status on sex life to promote healthy sexuality and reduce sexual health disparities.