Coolidge Effect
Updated:The Coolidge Effect is a biological phenomenon observed in many species, including humans, where males show renewed sexual interest if introduced to new receptive sexual partners, even after exhaustion or satiation with a previous partner. This effect is named after U.S. President Calvin Coolidge, due to an anecdote about him and his wife visiting a chicken farm.
The Coolidge Effect demonstrates how novelty can be a powerful factor in sexual arousal and performance, particularly in males. It's believed to have evolved as a mechanism to increase the chances of spreading one's genes by mating with multiple partners.
Additional Information
While the Coolidge Effect is most pronounced in males, some studies suggest a similar, albeit less strong, effect in females. The phenomenon is not limited to visual stimuli; new partners can also stimulate renewed interest through different scents, sounds, or behaviors.
From an evolutionary perspective, the Coolidge Effect may explain certain aspects of human sexual behavior, such as the desire for sexual variety or the effectiveness of novelty in maintaining sexual interest in long-term relationships.
Examples
A man who feels sexually satiated with his current partner might experience renewed arousal upon encountering a new potential partner.
In a study, male rats showed decreased interest in mating with the same female over time, but their interest was immediately renewed when a new female was introduced.