2019/02/26 by Nicola Döring, Sandra Poeschl · 1 citation
Psychology · Social Sciences · #Gender, Feminism, and Media #Sex work and related issues #Sexuality, Behavior, and Technology
paper · doi:10.1080/00224499.2019.1578329
openalex publication_date 2019/02/26 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
Studies from English-speaking countries show that sex toy use is common in various populations and often associated with sexual well-being. Empirical data on sex toy use and perceived effects in other countries is still missing. Based on the Positive Sexuality framework and the Positive Technology framework, this study documented the prevalence of sex toy use in solo and partnered sex among heterosexual-identified women and men in Germany, as well as perceived positive and/or negative effects of sex toy use on sexual well-being. A survey was conducted with a national online sample of 1,723 heterosexual-identified adults in Germany (Mage = 42.71, SD = 13.25, 49% women, 51% men). The majority (52%) reported sex toy use in partnered sex, and 45% reported sex toy use in solo sex. Stronger positive than negative perceived effects of sex toy use were reported by women and men alike. Findings indicate that professionals in sexual health/sexuality education should consider sex toy use as a common and beneficial sexual behavior. Future studies could explore specific effects of sex toy use and their predictors in more detail.