ABSTRACT
This chapter explains Einarsdttir Anna's fieldwork experiences of discussing intimacies and sex in face-to-face interviews. Studying intimacies and sex raises a layer of methodological challenges, which can be explored from different angles. Studying intimacies and sex raises a layer of methodological challenges, which can be explored from different angles. Most couple studies are based on interviews with heterosexual couples whereby partners are either interviewed together or separately. One of the tools we used to facilitate conversation about intimacies and sex was a list of sexual activities which we printed out from the dating website Gaydar. Aside from offering partners, a benchmark, a springboard or an opportunity to discuss no-go zones or problem areas, it also spurred some to share funny sex stories. Making direct eye contact during this discussion was difficult and found herdelf avoiding it for two different reasons. It was a useful strategy in dealing with embarrassment, and secondly, it seemed to deflect potential sexual tension.
