Sensate focus: addressing potential preconceived notions of black sexuality

Abstract

As researchers of African Americans, we realized there are few studies on Black sexuality and pleasure. Most do not focus on how stigmas and stereotypes regarding Black sexuality have influenced self and relational narratives associated with sex. Yet as seen in modern day Black American and mainstream culture, sex is often highlighted in the Black community, sending performative messages and unrealistic expectations on physical anatomy that limits expansion of mutual sexual pleasure. Using phenomenology and the Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) Outcome assessment, we interviewed 10 African American participants, 7 female, 2 male, and 1 male-identifying. The focus was on participants understanding of good and meaningful sex to determine if any internalized stereotypical narratives of Black sexuality was present and the influence of a culturally sensitive workshop exploring the sensate focus approach. Through thematic analysis, five themes were found: (a) healthy communication, (b) mindfulness, (c) education and unlearning, (d) emotional connection, (e) mutual pleasure. Although identifying a limited amount of internalized racial and sexual stereotypes among the participants, researchers were able to determine a significant influence in participants understanding of what good and meaningful sex is following their experience attending a sensate focus workshop. Implications and future discussions to further understand internalized assumptions of Black sexuality is recommended for both clinical and research perspectives.

LAY SUMMARY

This study explored the meaning of good and meaningful sex through three research centered approaches and one sex therapy technique: phenomenology, Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT), and sensate focus by exploring stereotypical narratives of Black sexuality. Suggestions are included to fill gaps between sensate focus and those of African American backgrounds.

Keywords:

• Black sexuality
• sensate focus
• sex therapy

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).