Network Position and Sexual Dysfunction: Implications of Partner Betweenness for Men

Abstract

This paper combines relational perspectives on gender identity with social network structural perspectives on health to understand men’s sexual functioning. We argue that network positions that afford independence and control over social resources are consistent with traditional masculine roles and may therefore affect men’s sexual performance. For example, when a heterosexual man’s female partner has more frequent contact with his confidants than he does–a situation that we refer to as partner betweenness – his relational autonomy, privacy, and control are constrained. Analyses of data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) show that about a quarter of men experience partner betweenness, and that these men are 92 percent more likely to report problems getting and/or maintaining an erection (95% CI: 1.274, 2.881). This association is strongest among the youngest men in the sample, which may reflect changing conceptions of masculinity in later life. We close by considering several explanations for these findings, and urge additional research on the linkages between health, gender, and network structure.

Intimacy and Belonging

“…While more dimensions of physical health associate with depression for women, physical health has greater consequence for the association between sex and depression for men. This finding is consistent with research that shows sexual health particularly important for older men (Meadows and Davidson 2006), suggesting that cultural beliefs about masculinity, control, and virility may influence the gendered patterns we observe (Cornwell and Laumann 2011). Additionally, consistent with literature concerning the gendered nature of the association between relationships and depression (Simon 2002;Simon and Barrett 2010;Umberson 1992; Walker and Luszcz 2009), we found relationship qualities have a greater influence on the association between sexual activity and depression for older women than they do for men.…”

Egalitarianism, Housework, and Sexual Frequency in Marriage

“…To the extent that masculinity and femininity are central parts of both the household division of labor and sexual attraction and activity, we expect that households with more traditionally gendered divisions of labor will experience greater sexual frequency. We note that this argument—that sexual behavior is linked to gender identity and expression—is entirely consistent with a mechanism proposed by Cornwell and Laumann (2011:177–78): “in the context of sexual relationships, masculinity is expressed through ‘erection, penetration, and climax,’ so it is possible that threats to gender identity … manifest as sexual problems.”…”

Dynamic social support networks of younger black men who have sex with men with new HIV infection

“…This position could enable a YBMSM to enforce the confidentiality of his health and behavior – for example, an SC is more likely to learn of the YBMSM’s HIV-status directly, rather than from another member. Additionally, greater social control in one’s network has been shown to improve assertiveness and health (Cornwell & Laumann, 2011). …”