An Exploration of Sexual Activity and Mental Health: A Literature Review

Authors: Taylor Pszczolski, Christina Poor

SUNY Campus: SUNY Cobleskill

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 13

Timeslot: Session D 3:00-4:00 PM

Abstract: The focus of this project is to explore how frequent sexual activity impacts psychological wellbeing, specifically how it impacts outcomes such as stress, mood regulation, and self-esteem. This project will consist of conducting a literature review of literature published within the last five years to explore connections between sexual activity and mental health. The question being presented is as follows: does sexual activity show a relationship with stress management, mood regulation, and self-esteem? The literature includes scales to measure these aspects include the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). All data within the articles is gathered via surveys and questionnaires. This project is relevant to today’s society due to the expanding focus on mental health as well as the expanding acceptance of increased sexual activity. The information from this project could improve their comprehensive psychological well-being as well as help challenge the stigma surrounding topics of sexual activity and change perspectives of various types of sexual activities. The focus of this project will be the broad picture. While there may be a difference between the impact sex has on people of different genders and sexualities, only overall trends will be noted within the content of the project. These trends include stress levels, self-esteem levels, and mood regulation in people who participate in sexual activity compared to those who do not participate in sexual activity.