ABSTRACT
For adult women and men, especially in a married or partnered relationship, there are many more psychological, relational, and sexual similarities than differences. The challenge is to integrate intimacy and eroticism to create strong, resilient sexual desire. Eroticism is core to female sexuality. Rather than feeling intimidated by porn messages about eroticism, the healthy approach emphasizes integrated eroticism. Intimacy builds loving, close, secure, predictable, and meaningful attachment. Eroticism builds a vital, vibrant, unpredictable, and emotionally and sexually charged relationship. Both the woman and man value intimacy and eroticism—not split by traditional gender roles. The couple are intimate and erotic friends who share sexual experiences whether wonderful or disappointing.
