Sympathy Sex: Is There a Double Standard?
Selfless Vs Selfish
Sadness Leads To Passion
Linda had been trying to reach Bob all weekend to no avail. Monday night he finally answered his phone sounding very despondent.
Linda: I’ve been trying to reach you for a couple of days. What’s the matter?
Bob: I just learned my father died.
Linda: I’m so sorry to hear that. I’m coming over.
About an hour later Linda arrives at Bob’s apartment with Chinese take out. They sit down to eat and Bob talks about the good times he had with his dad. He begins to sob and Linda takes him in her arms. Gently she kisses him, unbuttons his shirt, and opens his pants. Soon they are having passionate sex.
Two Years Later
Bob has been calling Linda and she hasn’t answered her phone. He finally reaches her and she tells him her father died. An hour later Bob shows up at her door with take out from Chili’s. They sit down to eat as Linda reminisces about her childhood and father. Bob comforts her with a hug and kisses her on the forehead. Slowly he begins to undo her blouse. She quickly pushes his hand away.
Linda Stop it!
Bob: What did I do wrong?
Linda: I just told you my father died!
Bob: I know.
Linda: What makes you think I want to have sex?!
Bob: Hey, We did it when my daddy died.
Linda: Just go home!
Befuddled and confused Bob puts on his jacket and goes home. Linda calls her girlfriend to tell her how unbelievably selfish and insensitive Bob was.
Is it possible for a man to provide “sympathy sex”?