Relationships and Sexual Health

Popular advice claims you must love yourself before loving someone else. New research reveals that specific habits of self-care actually do foster better intimacy and commitment in romantic relationships.

A new study published in Personal Relationships suggests that a person's level of relationship jealousy remains fairly steady over time with a specific partner, but can shift significantly when they enter a new relationship.

When choosing a partner, do you value wealth or kindness? A new study finds that while humans have a default preference for generosity, our priorities quickly shift toward wealth if we find ourselves in a highly unequal environment.

Discover how the massive Ashley Madison data leak allowed psychologists to study the real reasons people seek affairs and how society judges them.

A recent study in the Journal of Business and Psychology suggests a man’s workplace fulfillment is deeply connected to his romantic relationship. When his financial values align with his female partner's, he experiences greater satisfaction at work.

Watching explicit media with a romantic partner lowers relationship satisfaction for women who morally object to the practice. However, psychological defense mechanisms like blaming the partner can short-circuit this negative emotional chain.

New research reveals a small but consistent link between early physical attractiveness and adult personality. Using decades of data, scientists found that attractive children tend to develop highly cooperative and socially effective traits by middle age.

Exploring millions of books, researchers found that the phrase "feeling sexy" is primarily used to describe women. This linguistic trend suggests that female arousal is often linked to the awareness of being desired by others.

Getting back together with an ex might feel romantic, but a new study suggests this cycle acts as a chronic stressor. This on-again, off-again pattern creates compounding tension that indirectly takes a toll on physical and mental health.

Unsure if you are dating or "just talking"? Learn the scientific definition of a situationship, the signs you are in one, and the psychological impact.

A study finds that adolescent boys increasingly mistake friendliness for sexual interest as they mature. But teenage girls rarely have their romantic advances dismissed as mere friendliness.

Why do some people enjoy pain? From spicy food to BDSM, researchers investigate the biological and psychological roots of benign masochism.

A new study analyzing California data and national surveys finds that same-sex couples overwhelmingly prefer marriage to domestic partnerships. The research suggests marriage offers unique legal and social benefits that alternatives cannot match.

A new study challenges the idea that men rely more emotionally on partners. Researchers found that moving in together boosts well-being for both sexes equally, while marriage adds no extra psychological perks for cohabiting older adults.

Researchers found that cognitive flexibility—the ability to switch perspectives—partially explains why satisfied couples view marriage positively. The study surveyed 436 young adults to map this psychological pathway.