How do women experience dyadic sexual activities at the attentional level?

This qualitative study aims to gain a deeper understanding of the attentional mechanisms in anorgasmic and orgasmic women during dyadic sexual activities. Seven women aged 21 to 40 (M = 31.57, SD = 7.27) completed several questionnaires and participated in a semi-structured interview. The thematic analysis revealed that anorgasmic women exhibit attentional biases that may contribute to the onset and persistence of orgasmic dysfunction: 1) Attention directed towards non-erotic stimuli in the sexual relationship, 2) Attention focused on mental rumination, and 3) Attention directed towards dysfunctional cognitions. In contrast, orgasmic women employ attentional strategies that facilitate orgasm: 1) Attention directed towards bodily sensations, 2) Attention focused on erotic fantasies, and 3) Redirecting attention towards erotic stimuli. In conclusion, the attention of anorgasmic women appears to be captured by attentional biases, while orgasmic women concentrate on the present moment (erotic and pleasurable stimuli). Therefore, it is crucial to assess attentional resources to enhance future interventions.