A recent study from the Institute for Family Studies (IFS) in Charlottesville, Virginia, reveals that married couples who frequently attend church enjoy more active sex lives and higher levels of sexual satisfaction compared to those who don’t attend as often, or at all.
The researchers evaluated data from several surveys, including the IFS Religion and Family Survey, which involved 3,125 married adults aged 18 to 54, as well as the long-standing General Social Survey. This included insights from 1,219 alumni of FOCUS, a Catholic campus ministry.
Findings from the report show that regular church attendees reported having sex more often. In fact, 62% of married churchgoers between the ages of 20 and 54 stated they had sex at least once a week, whereas only 48% of non-religious married individuals reported the same. Among these churchgoers, Catholics showed some of the highest levels of sexual frequency.
Moreover, sexual satisfaction tended to be greater among those who attended services regularly. Catholics and Protestants who were consistent in attending religious activities were more likely to rate their sex lives positively compared to those who attended less frequently or identified as non-religious.
The study also identifies a connection between daily prayer and increased sexual satisfaction among married Catholics and Protestants, though this was not linked to the frequency of sexual activity. Interestingly, 55% of regular churchgoing Catholics described their sex lives as “excellent” or “very good,” compared to 45% of nominal Catholics and 40% of those without religious ties.
The research points out that individuals who view marriage as a long-lasting commitment tend to report both satisfying and frequent sexual experiences. This belief, along with shared values between partners, is closely associated with better overall marital quality.
While these findings are significant, the researchers noted that their observational nature doesn’t prove that religious practice directly leads to improved marital or sexual outcomes. The reports relied on self-assessments from married individuals, and other factors not measured could influence the results.
Jessica Steinman, a licensed marriage and family therapist from Los Angeles, shared insights into the relationship between religious involvement and the quality of a couple’s sexual life. She noted that people often assume religiously active individuals have a limited view of their sex lives, but this research suggests a shift in that perception.
According to Steinman, couples who engage in shared spiritual or religious activities might feel a stronger bond with each other. This spiritual connection could lead to a more open and vulnerable relationship, which, in turn, might enhance their sexual experiences. She emphasized that aspects of religious life, including rituals and shared practices, may strengthen emotional connections between partners.
Steinman encourages couples, regardless of their religious beliefs, to invest time in connecting with each other beyond everyday small talk. She suggests turning off devices and focusing on deeper conversations about emotional intimacy and sexual connection.
Overall, the study highlights a potential link between religious involvement and a more fulfilled marital and sexual life, urging couples to find ways to strengthen their relationships through shared activities and open communication.
