Terry, Gareth (2012). “I’m putting a lid on that desire”:
celibacy, choice and control. Sexualities, 15(7) pp. 871–
889.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1363460712454082
Abstract
Sex is constructed as an important (even essential) part
of ‘normal’ adult functioning, and for men in particular.
While sexual abstinence may often be valued among
adolescents, ‘celibacy’ among adults is considered
problematic, associated with losses in health, well-being
and general quality of life. Despite this, for various
reasons, some people choose to deliberately avoid
sexual activity (often conflated with coitus) with another
person, even though they might continue to desire it.
This article presents interview data detailing nine men’s
accounts of their choice to be ‘celibate’ or deliberately
giving up sex for a period of time. Using thematic
analysis, it presents two primary themes. First, that sex
(despite the choice to be celibate) is still an imperative,
and second, that celibacy becomes necessary as sex
itself can be constructed as a problem. The analysis also
examines how accounts of ‘choice’ and ‘control’ are used
to define celibacy as a form of resistance to the power
of the male sex-drive discourse, and yet simultaneously
build upon hegemonic forms of masculine sense making
such as a selfcontrol, autonomy, and in some cases
outright misogyny.
celibacy, choice and control. Sexualities, 15(7) pp. 871–
889.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1363460712454082
Abstract
Sex is constructed as an important (even essential) part
of ‘normal’ adult functioning, and for men in particular.
While sexual abstinence may often be valued among
adolescents, ‘celibacy’ among adults is considered
problematic, associated with losses in health, well-being
and general quality of life. Despite this, for various
reasons, some people choose to deliberately avoid
sexual activity (often conflated with coitus) with another
person, even though they might continue to desire it.
This article presents interview data detailing nine men’s
accounts of their choice to be ‘celibate’ or deliberately
giving up sex for a period of time. Using thematic
analysis, it presents two primary themes. First, that sex
(despite the choice to be celibate) is still an imperative,
and second, that celibacy becomes necessary as sex
itself can be constructed as a problem. The analysis also
examines how accounts of ‘choice’ and ‘control’ are used
to define celibacy as a form of resistance to the power
of the male sex-drive discourse, and yet simultaneously
build upon hegemonic forms of masculine sense making
such as a selfcontrol, autonomy, and in some cases
outright misogyny.
