There’s an intriguing concept of an ‘ideal body count’ for both men and women according to scientific research. The topic of a partner’s sexual history can be a sensitive one. Some might prefer not to delve into it, questioning its significance. Yet, scientific findings suggest there is an optimal number of sexual partners and even a preferred age for losing virginity.
A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science explored the preferences regarding sexual activity for men and women, revealing that those with moderate sexual experiences are viewed more favorably.
On the other hand, the study suggests that having either very few or too many sexual experiences might result in less favorable perceptions.
In the study, over 340 participants from Germany were surveyed about societal views on a 25-year-old man or woman with varying levels of sexual experiences.
The survey included detailed questions about the number of sexual partners, frequency of intercourse, masturbation habits, and even sexual fantasies.
The findings indicated a gender disparity in perceptions: men with high sexual activity were viewed more positively than women, while women with low sexual activity were rated more positively than men.
However, the study concluded that a moderate level of sexual activity is deemed most socially acceptable for both men and women, suggesting that neither a complete lack of sexual history nor a high ‘body count’ is ideal.
Despite these findings highlighting a persistent double standard, the situation is more nuanced.
The study determined that the ideal number of sexual partners for men is approximately four to five, with two to three being casual partners.
The preferred age for men to lose their virginity was between 18 to 20 years.
For women, the study showed a preference for two to three total sexual partners, with one or two being casual.
Their ideal age for losing virginity was found to be slightly younger, between 16 and 18 years.
“There are both similarities and differences in the societal evaluation of male and female sexuality,” the researchers explained. “However, contrary to common assumptions, moderate rather than extremely low or extremely high levels of sexual activity are most valued for both genders.”
Men were perceived more favorably if they engaged in sexual activity four to five times per week and masturbated three to four times a week. Women, on the other hand, were judged more positively if they had sexual activity three to four times a week and masturbated two to three times.
Regarding sexual fantasies, the study found that three times a day is considered acceptable for men, while for women, the acceptable frequency is two times a day.