Which statement best characterizes sexual desire discrepancy and a proven approach for couples dealing with it?

• A. One partner desires sex more than the other; approaches include communication, scheduling sexual activity, increasing nonsexual intimacy, and negotiating mutually satisfactory solutions.
• B. Sexual desire discrepancy means both partners have the same level of desire, and no strategies are needed.
• C. It refers to differences in sexual orientation between partners.
• D. It is resolved best by abstaining from sexual activity entirely.

Answer: (A)

Sexual desire discrepancy is when partners have different levels of interest in sex. The best approach combines open communication about needs and boundaries, scheduling sexual activity to reduce pressure and ensure opportunities, increasing nonsexual intimacy to maintain closeness, and negotiating mutually satisfactory solutions that work for both partners. This set of strategies directly addresses the mismatch by validating each person’s feelings, providing clear steps, and preserving the relationship even when desire levels differ. The other options miss the point: treating it as if both partners want the same thing, suggesting abstinence, or confusing the issue with differences in sexual orientation do not offer a practical, relationship-supportive path.