Sexual History

Sexual history refers to either an individual’s history of sexual partners and sexual experiences across multiple partners or the history of sex within a given relationship. The history of one’s sexual experience with a partner is an important element [Page 1531]of understanding the development of the romantic relationship, as it offers insight into when and how couples decided to become physically intimate and also often offers insight into how sexual attitudes intersect with other important value systems within the couple (such as religious values). The previous sexual history of both partners often gives additional clinical insight into many aspects of an individual’s personality and relational skills.

While relational scholars and practitioners often focus on the dynamics, strengths, and weaknesses of the current couple relationship when attempting ...