(No) Sex in Japan: A Sociology of Sexlessness in Intimate Relationships

This book explores the sociological perspective of (non-)sexual intimate relationships in contemporary Japan, examining the phenomenon of sexlessness and its impact on Japanese couples' satisfaction and well-being. Drawing from original interview research, it discusses the influence of work environment, childbirth, infertility treatments, past sexual experiences, extramarital affairs, and unmarried and married couple relationships on individual sexual behavior and consciousness. It also provides a cultural comparison with discourses on sexuality in Germany and Austria, questioning whether sexlessness is a unique Japanese phenomenon or if parallels can be found in Western societies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 209 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the intricate realm of (non-)sexual intimate relationships in contemporary Japan, offering a sociological lens to explore a phenomenon that has garnered increasing attention in popular culture. Despite the growing interest in the topic of sexlessness in intimate relationships, scholarly investigations in Japan remain limited. Hence, this book emerges as a valuable contribution, providing an in-depth analysis of the socio-structural elements within both academic and public discourses in Japanese culture concerning sexlessness. Through original interview research, the author gains insightful perspectives into the experiences of individuals and investigates the intricate connection between sexual inactivity, sexuality, and the satisfaction and well-being of Japanese couples within their relationships.

The book explores a wide range of factors that influence individual sexual behavior and consciousness, including the work environment, childbirth, infertility treatments, past sexual experiences, extramarital affairs, and relationships among unmarried and married couples. By conducting a cultural comparison with discourses on sexuality in Germany and Austria, the book offers a broader understanding of the meaning of sexuality across different societies. This comparative analysis sheds light on whether sexlessness is a unique Japanese phenomenon or if parallels and similarities can be found in Western societies.

The book's central objective is to engage in a rethinking of the meaning of sexuality, love, intimacy, and relationships, both within and outside of Japan. It serves as a valuable resource for students and scholars of Japanese studies, gender, sexology, and sociology, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics shaping these relationships in contemporary Japanese society.

Weight: 343g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811684661
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022