Having a healthy sex life boosts employees’ job satisfaction and engagement in the office, according to an Oregon State University research study.
A study examining work and sex habits of married employees found that those who prioritized having sex gave themselves an advantage over those who did not. Research suggests that they were more likely to be become involved in their work assignments and enjoy their job, according to Keith Leavitt, associate professor in OSU’s College of Business.
“We make jokes about people having a ‘spring in their step,’ but it turns out this is actually a real thing and we should pay attention to it,” said Leavitt, an expert in organizational behavior and management. “Maintaining a healthy relationship that includes a healthy sex life will help employees stay happy and engaged in their work, which benefits the employees and the organizations they work for.”
The research findings were published in the Journal of Management and researchers also found that bringing work-related stress from home negatively affected their sex lives. In a time where employees are an arm’s reach from emails and work assignments, thanks in part to their smartphones, Leavitt says, employees are sacrificing their personal life for work.
Biologically, research has shown that sex releases the hormone dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with the reward centers in the brain. In addition, oxytocin is also released, which is associated with bonding and social attachment. Leavitt argues that sex provides emotional and mental benefits that extend beyond after sex.
Researchers examined 159 married employees over the course of two weeks and asked them to complete two surveys each day. Scientists found that over the course of two weeks, employees who had sex more often had reported more positive moods the following day, and elevated mood levels in the morning after, which led to higher work engagement and job satisfaction.
“This is a reminder that sex has social, emotional and physiological benefits, and it’s important to make it a priority,” Leavitt said. “Just make time for it.”
This news comes after Pornhub, the pornographic video streaming website, announced a new initiative to provide free sex education for those interested in learning about sexually transmitted diseases, intercourse, sexuality and other common topics related to sex.