What sex feels like, in your body and in your head

Sex and sexuality could be described as a 'learning curve'. So what you consider important at 15 or 16 may seem irrelevant in your twenties. People in their late teens and twenties usually felt that their behaviour, views and attitudes about sex and relationships had changed a lot during the last few years.

Many people believe that one-night stands or casual sex are 'just sex', or 'raw sex', even a selfish act . Sex in a one night stand is 'completely different' to sex in a long-term relationship because in casual sex neither partner has any knowledge of the other, of what each other likes . Some people think men find casual sex easier and more satisfying , but not all men agree .

Thinks that a one night stand is a selfish act that people do to compensate lack of affection. (Actor)

Compares sex within a relationship to sex in one night stands or casual sex.

Thinks that for men casual sex is easier.

Finds that it is not easy to have sex with someone who does not know anything about you.

Some people feel one night stands or casual sex are without emotional involvement . Sex might be more passionate than in a longstanding relationship, but the passion tends to wear off rather quickly .

A gay man compares the emotional and physical differences of casual sex and sex in a relationship.

Thinks that in casual sex there is no emotional involvement and that she is more prepared to do certain things in the context of a loving relationship.

Thinks that casual sex has no emotional level.

Thinks that casual sex is more passionate and that a long term relationship is a very emotional affair.

Many people prefer sex in a stable relationship , believing they have more emotional and physical satisfaction . And people have strong views on fidelity. Open relationships may suit some people, but others feel cheating is a waste of time and money , or can make you feel guilty .

Explains that he does not want 'quick unproblematic sex' but a proper relationship.

Believes that sexual relationships are easier if you are friends as well.

Recognises that sex in a relationship implies a sense of vulnerability. (Actor)

Thinks that sex in a long term relationship is more enjoyable.

Says that he was unfaithful to his girlfriend but admits that he has learned from his experience.

Even those who admitted that they were 'not very good' at fidelity thought that faithfulness is important. Some people agree honesty is more important so that if a partner's sleeping with someone else you can at least protect yourself from STIs .

Thinks that honesty between partners is more important than faithfulness per se.

Sexual satisfaction is clearly important to most young people. Some think boredom is the biggest threat to good sex, but being compatible with your partner can help . In a stable relationship sex is important but not everyone agrees it's the most important thing .

Thinks that communication and understanding are important elements for a good relationship.

Talks about why he considers his present relationship as important. (Actor)

Says that it is important for him to find a companion rather than just someone to have sex with.

The combination of good communication, affection, honesty and trust intertwine to make the relationship, and the sex that goes with it, special.

Some people don't believe in sex before marriage, and feel that sex is something special to be shared between two people who are committed to one another .