Effects of adverse childhood experiences on partnered sexual arousal appear context dependent

Abstract Partnered sexual interactions can provoke distressing emotional experiences for individuals with a history of childhood adversity impeding the experience of sexual arousal. Some theorize that such histories impair the ability to feel close to any person, leading to difficulty connecting with intimate partners and sexual dissatisfaction. In contrast, it is possible that alleged deficits in closeness are due to contextual factors. To test this hypothesis, we examined whether the same deficits were present during Orgasmic Meditation (OM), a form of partnered sexual interaction that specifically promotes closeness. Couples (N due to contextual factors. To test this hypothesis, we examined whether the same deficits were present during Orgasmic Meditation (OM), a Participants reported higher positive (happy, amused, sexually aroused) and lower negative (anxiety, anger) emotions after OM. Those reporting more childhood adversity, especially sexual abuse, reported higher sexual arousal relative to those who had less childhood adversity. We conclude that effects of adverse childhood on perceived closeness and arousal can be mitigated contextually. LAY SUMMARY Persons with a history of trauma may struggle responding sexually with a partner. This study suggests a structured sexual context is associated with increased sexual arousal in persons with, relative to persons without, a trauma history. Providing safety signals in intimate contexts may facilitate sexuality in trauma victims.