Final answer:
Women have a greater preference for long-term committed relationships due to societal norms, the sexual double standard, and more restrictive sexual attitudes, especially in the United States. This preference affects their sexual practices, leading to fewer sexual partners compared to men and influencing their behavior within relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to various research studies and surveys on sexual functioning and practices, there appears to be a gender difference with women exhibiting a greater preference for long-term committed relationships than men. Research by Ira Reiss and findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that societal norms and the sexual double standard have historically allowed men to have multiple sexual partners while women are encouraged to seek committed relationships. Studies have indicated that married couples tend to have sex more frequently than singles and that societal pressures and sexual attitudes in the United States, in particular, are more restrictive towards women compared to men, influencing their sexual practices and number of sexual partners.
These trends demonstrate how social and cultural factors can have a profound impact on sexual behaviors and desires, shaping individual preferences for intimacy and relationship dynamics. While men are often perceived to desire multiple partners, women are more likely to be expected to prefer and pursue monogamous, long-term connections due to societal norms and expectations.