01/12/2026
Today, the term s*x positive is typically associated with acceptance, non-judgment, and affirmation. S*x positivity doesn’t mean you’re having s*x all the time – or even at all. It simply means we see it as a healthy, natural, and positive part of our lives.
The roots of the term go back to the 1920s with Wilhelm Reich, who said s*xual behavior can either viewed as positive and and something to be celebrated (s*x positive) or negative and should be limited/controlled (s*x negative).
It wasn’t until the ‘60s and ‘70s that s*x positive culture took off in the U.S. This included broader conversations about different s*xual orientations, individual s*xual identities, and different s*xual activities and preferences.
Many communities over time have adopted and adapted how they talk about s*x positivity. What does s*x positivity look like for you?
