Sex and Love: A Tough Balancing Act
Marieke Dewitte
Marieke Dewitte is a clinical psychologist-sexologist who had her training in Belgium and The Netherlands and completed her PhD at Ghent University, Belgium. She currently works as assistant professor at the Department of Clinical Psychological Science of the University of Maastricht, The Netherlands. Her research involves psychophysiological studies on basic mechanisms of sexual functioning, gender differences, relational dynamics, dyadic interactions between partners, and attachment in relation to sexual responding. The main focus of her research is on the sexual interaction between partners. She also worked as sex therapist at Ghent University Hospital and now at Maastricht University Hospital. She is editor-in-chief of the Dutch Journal of Sexology and Secretary General of the European Society of Sexual Medicine.
- Recording: No
- Language: English/Dutch
- Duration: 45 min / 15 min
Session Summary
Our current society is marked by more and more diversity, also at the level of sex and relationships. In this interactive session, Marieke will elaborate on the mechanisms, evolution, shaping and tenability/sustainability of the romantic ideal and the monogamous relationship. How did our relationships evolve throughout the years? Why did we start questioning sexual exclusivity while clinging to the exclusive romantic couple model? She will clarify the tension between sex and love and how we can deal with discrepancies in sexual desire in a partner relationship. In addition, Marieke emphasizes attachment as the fundament of our human being, and addresses the challenges to reconcile our need for autonomy and connection.
Interaction
During the expert session, Marieke Dewitte engages with the audience through various means, including a Q&A session, live demonstrations using the Mentimeter app for interactive exercises.
Key Learnings
- Understanding Evolution: Gain insights into the historical evolution of relationships and the shift in perceptions around sexual exclusivity and romantic ideals.
- Navigating Tensions: Learn strategies to manage the tension between sex and love and address discrepancies in sexual desire within partnerships.
- Balancing Autonomy and Connection: Discover practical approaches to balance the need for autonomy with the desire for deep emotional connection in romantic relationships.
Detailed session description
In our increasingly diverse society, the concepts of sex and relationships are evolving in remarkable ways. In this interactive session, Marieke will delve into the mechanisms, evolution, and sustainability of the romantic ideal and monogamous relationships. She will explore how our relationships have changed over time and why there is a growing trend to question sexual exclusivity while still adhering to the model of an exclusive romantic couple. This session will shed light on the tension between sex and love and offer insights on managing discrepancies in sexual desire within a partnership.
Marieke will provide an in-depth analysis of the historical and cultural factors that have shaped our current understanding of relationships and sexuality. She will discuss the societal expectations surrounding monogamy and the reasons why people continue to uphold this model despite increasing challenges. By examining the psychological and emotional underpinnings of attachment, Marieke will highlight its importance as a fundamental aspect of human relationships and how it impacts our need for both autonomy and connection.
Participants will engage in discussions and exercises aimed at reconciling the seemingly conflicting needs for independence and intimacy in romantic relationships. Marieke will offer practical strategies for navigating these dynamics, helping attendees foster healthier, more fulfilling connections. By the end of the session, participants will have a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern relationships and be equipped with tools to address issues of sexual desire, attachment, and personal growth within their partnerships.
Other Sessions by this Speaker
Sex and Love: A Tough Balancing Act
Our current society is marked by more and more diversity, also at the level of sex and relationships. In this interactive session, Marieke will elaborate on the mechanisms, evolution, shaping and tenability/sustainability of the romantic ideal and the monogamous relationship. How did our relationships evolve throughout the years? Why did we start questioning sexual exclusivity while clinging to the exclusive romantic couple model? She will clarify the tension between sex and love and how we can deal with discrepancies in sexual desire in a partner relationship. In addition, Marieke emphasizes attachment as the fundament of our human being, and addresses the challenges to reconcile our need for autonomy and connection.
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