Sexual Reward in an Intimate Relationship

Objectives: This study examined the association between three sexual motivations—rewarding, intimacy, and enhancement—and their relationship to sexual and relationship satisfaction. A novel conceptualization of sexual reward was introduced and tested. Methods: The sample included 675 individuals in steady intimate relationships (12+ months). Participants completed measures assessing sexual motives and satisfaction levels. A newly developed scale for sexual reward motivation was validated. Findings: The rewarding motive was present among many participants, with approximately 10% reporting frequent use. Rewarding was negatively associated with both relationship satisfaction and sexual satisfaction. It also showed a negative correlation with enhancement motivation and no significant correlation with intimacy motivation. Conclusions: While occasional sexual reward may not impact relationship dynamics, frequent use of this motive appears to undermine both sexual and relational well-being. The findings suggest that sexual reward is a distinct and measurable motivation with potential implications for couple dynamics and therapeutic intervention.