Abstract
Middle years marriages and middle years sexuality are areas that have suffered from benign scientific neglect. This clinical study with 30 middle-years couples provides some preliminary hypotheses and tentative conceptualizations. The outstanding characteristic of these couples is that they devoted little time or energy to their marital and sexual relationships. A dysfunctional or dissatisfied sexual relationship can undermine and devitalize the marital relationship. An alternative conceptualization of the role sexuality plays in middle years marriages is presented. The functions of sexuality include: 1) A shared pleasure which serves as a reinforcer; 2) Being emotionally closer and more intimate; and 3) As a tension reducer.