Research Title:
Anticipated Homework Engagement and Perceptions of Sensate Focus in Ethnoculturally Diverse Cisgender Women in Heterosexual Relationships
Research Team:
Principal investigator is Dr. Lori Brotto, UBC Faculty of Medicine Obstetrics & Gynaecology. Study coordinator is Hayal Muslu, pursuing a BSc. Behavioural Neuroscience.
Research Purpose:
Our research is focused on understanding how different cultural backgrounds can influence women’s views and expectations of Sensate Focus. Sensate Focus is a technique used in sex therapy that encourages an open expression of sexuality. However, in many cultures, there are specific beliefs and rules about women’s sexual pleasure that may not align with these ideas. We want to see how a woman’s cultural background might shape her thoughts about using Sensate Focus. Our goal is to find out what concerns or challenges women might have about this technique, especially in terms of improving closeness and sexual intimacy in their relationships. This research is important because it can help us make Sensate Focus and similar approaches more respectful and understanding of different cultural perspectives.
Research procedure:
If you decide to participate, you will take a 20-minute survey asking you about your ethnocultural background, sexual practices, and personal attitudes about sex. Within the survey, you will be asked to read an introduction of Sensate Focus. Afterward, the survey will gather your reactions to what you’ve read about Sensate Focus. The survey, including the reading, will take you approximately 20 minutes to complete.
Who can participate?
Consider participating in the Uplift study if:
- You identify as an ethnically diverse individual with non-Western cultural influences (e.g., a parent/guardian born outside of North America or Europe)
- You are 18 years of age or older
- You live in North America
- You are able to communicate in English
- You have access to a device with internet connection
- You were assigned female sex at birth and are cisgender
- You are currently in a heterosexual romantic relationship that has lasted minimum 1 year
- You have engaged in sexual activities with your partner
- You have never been taught about or practiced Sensate Focus
When does this study take place?
The study will be recruiting until the end of February 2024.
Where does this study take place?
The questionnaire will be taking place virtually on a secure Qualtrics survey.
Where can I access the Qualtrics questionnaire?
Link: https://ubc.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eEfb96FPbsBmLGe
Will you be compensated?
In order to acknowledge the time you dedicated to participating in this research study, all the participants, including those who withdraw at any point in the study, will be entered into a draw to win a CAD $50 gift card through a randomizer
Contact:
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the study coordinator by email: Hayal Muslu (hayalm@student.ubc.ca)