Human sexuality is multifaceted. In recent years, several studies have shown that people can experience sexual fluidity over the course of life, especially a change in sexual self-identification, but also flexibility regarding other dimensions of sexual orientation, desire and lust.
The aim of this qualitative study is to gain a more differentiated insight into the biographies of people with a changing sexuality and thereby reconstruct experiential backgrounds of sexual fluidity.
Project team
- Project lead: Dr. Barbara Rothmüller (barbara.rothmueller@sfu.ac.at)
- Project team: Anna-Greta Mittelberger, MA
Method
In the qualitative longitudinal study, narrative interviews are conducted with participants at intervals of several years.
Question(s) and hypotheses
A representative preliminary study showed that part of the Austrian population experiences significant changes in their sexuality over the course of their lives. However, the psychosocial effects of this experience are insufficiently researched.
Scientific and practical relevance
In Austria, the data on many topics of sexuality research has been insufficient so far. Lack of knowledge about possible sexual developments over the course of life can lead to social exclusion from support networks and discrimination in sexual communities. Psychosocial support and counselling services are also mostly aimed at (supposedly) clearly defined sexual minorities. The research project contributes to a better understanding of sexual fluidity with the aim of preparing the findings for educational and counselling services.
Project duration
04/2023 – 12/2033
Media coverage
- Report on the results of the preliminary study on ORF Science (in German): Pandemie war kein Lustkiller
- Report in Austrian newspaper “Die Presse” (in German): Heute noch monogam, morgen schon polyamor
If you want to participate in the study, please contact Dr. Barbara Rothmüller at barbara.rothmueller@sfu.ac.at.
More information: http://barbararothmueller.net