Volume 26 Num. 1 - March 2026
The Paradox of Pleasure and Protection: A Theoretical Exploration of Sex, Condom Use and Human Flourishing
Volume 26 Num. 1 - March 2026 - Pages 17-37
Authors:
CI Onyemaechi , RC Ibekwe , CJ Isreal , PO Philip , LA Chibueze
Abstract:
Volume 26-1 March 1st, 2026
This article examines the complex relationships between sex, condom use, and human flourishing; challenging the conventional wisdom that condom use undermines sexual pleasure and intimacy. Drawing on existential and feminist theories, we argue that condoms can empower individuals to navigate the paradox of pleasure and protection, fostering a sense of autonomy, agency, and well-being. We propose a framework that integrates three interconnected concepts: (1) embodied subjectivity, highlighting the intricate relationships between bodily experiences, emotions, and desires; (2) relational ethics, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, trust, and communication in sexual encounters; and (3) ontological security, exploring the ways in which condom use can provide a sense of safety and security, enabling individuals to engage in sexual activities with greater confidence and pleasure. These three pillars form an integrated system wherein embodied awareness enables ethical relating, which in turn generates ontological security. Thus, creating a cycle that enhances sexual flourishing. While this work is theoretically generalizable across cultural contexts, we illustrate its application through the Nigerian context, where cultural misconceptions about condom use remain particularly salient despite high rates of sexually transmitted infections. We argue that condom use can be a powerful tool for promoting sexual health, autonomy, and human flourishing, and should be celebrated as a responsible and empowered choice.
How to cite this paper:
Onyemaechi CI, Ibekwe RC, Isreal CJ, Philip PO, & Chibueze LA (2026). The Paradox of Pleasure and Protection: A Theoretical Exploration of Sex, Condom Use and Human Flourishing. International Journal of Psychology & Psychological Therapy, 26, 1, 17-37.
Key words:
pleasure, protection sex, condom use, human flourishing
Full Article
More articles in this volume
- [5-16] AI Induced Technostress: A Systematic Review of Risks and Opportunities
- [39-53] Qualitative Research on the psychotic experience within the Schizophrenia Spectrum from the Perspective of Phenomenological Psychopathology: A Systematic Review
- [79-92] The Mediating Role of Psychological Inflexibility between Psychotic Experiences and Mental Well-being in University Students
- [93-103] Post-stroke Depression, Anxiety, and Adjustment Disorder: One-Year Follow-Up Study
- [105-118] Psychometric Validation Turkish Version Personalized Psychological Flexibility Index (T-PPFI) in Disaster Search and Rescue Volunteers
- [119-128] Stress, Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents and School Climate
- [129-141] Promoting Perspective-Taking in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities through Naturalistic Conditional Discrimination Training
