Definition:
Like so many other sex terms that describe sexual politics, sexual orientation, or sexual identity, there is no one accepted definition for sex-positive.
In general sex positive has come to refer to a position that affirms that:
- Sex can be a positive force both in personal development and society.
- Consensual sexual expression is a basic human right regardless of the form that expression takes.
- People have the right to accurate and straightforward sexual health information.
- It is not appropriate to judge others consensual choices regarding how to have sex, who to have sex with, and how one defines their sexual orientation and identity.
- It is equally important to focus on the positive aspects of sexuality, like sexual pleasure, and not just disease prevention, prevention of sexual assault and unwanted pregnancy.
- Sexually is largely socially constructed, and there are few if any essential truths about sex.
The term sex positive has been in use in academic and research writing since at least the mid-1950s, where it was generally used as a synonym for erotophilia.
While the term sex positive is still used in sexual health and sexology, it has primarily become a marketing buzz word in the wide range of for profit industries that promote sex toys, books, and “experts” to speak to groups on sexual topics.
