In this issue of MAPP Magazine—which explores thriving sexuality, shifting narratives around reproductive health, as well as new work in developing a comprehensive model of sexual well-being—you can delve into the still-emerging sub-sect of positive psychology, positive sexuality. And in this article, you’ll read excerpts from our moving conversation with Stanford University Director of Positive Sexuality, Brianna Booth, PhD (C’11), who shared with us about her work and the power of storytelling and attunement to help not only to change narratives around sexuality but also to foster intimacy and connection.
Every month, nearly 1.8 billion people worldwide menstruate (Rohatgi & Dash, 2023). Menstruation is a normal, healthy bodily function, and it is core to our existence. And yet, it continues to be highly stigmatized and woefully under-addressed in terms of education and support. As such, menstruation is an ongoing source of emotional and physical distress for individuals. The oft-associated shame, embarrassment, confusion, and unmitigated discomfort have powerful downstream effects on health, body image, sexuality, education and opportunities, and overall well-being. How we approach menstruation is indicative of a broader issue around female health disempowerment and requires stigma-defying positive interventions to truly change the tides.
What are the ingredients for emotional connection during sexual activity (e.g., Blumenstock et al., 2020; Štulhover et al., 2014)? Can we move away from the black-and-white, good-or-bad perspectives and investigate the nuances of how casual sex impacts partners’ mental health (e.g., Kaestle & Evans, 2018)? How can partners in monogamous marriages and long-term relationships not only keep their sexual spark for one another burning (e.g., Mark & Lasslo, 2018), but thriving (e.g., Ménard et al., 2015)?
This fall, we’re at the brink of a new frontier in positive sexuality. So, to wrap this issue and a wonderful year of work alongside positive psychology experts, practitioners, and contributors across disciplines and from around the globe, we’re pleased to share excerpts from our conversation with another trailblazer. Vera Ludwig, PhD. is the new Director of the Human Sexuality and Well-Being Project at the University of Pennsylvania’s Positive Psychology Center. In this interview, she shared her own perspective about positive sexuality and offered an early glimpse into a project that promises to continue to move the field forward.
