The dual control model of sexual response: new findings and research directions

- The dual control model proposes that sexual arousal and related processes are dependent on the balance between sexual excitation and sexual inhibition. In addition, the model proposes that individuals vary in their propensity for these processes. This article provides an overview and discussion of the questionnaires used to measure the propensities for sexual excitation and inhibition, their translation and validation in other languages, and their application in empirical research on topics ranging from sexual desire and arousal, sexual (dys) function, sexual risk taking, asexuality, hypersexuality, and sexual aggression. More than 150 papers published between 2009 and 2022 were included. The findings suggest that sexual excitation is particularly relevant to sexual desire and responsivity and predictive of asexuality and hypersexuality. Sexual inhibition plays a role in sexual dysfunction. sexual risk taking, and sexual aggression, although often in interaction with sexual excitation. Suggestions for future research are discussed.