- Boredom can motivate some people to seek out new experiences
In long-term relationships, dwindling sexual desire is a serious issue. It occurs as a result of the same mate producing less dopamine during sexual encounters. Simultaneously, the brain's number of dopamine receptors decreases over time in order to process the effect of the reward induced by that person. Dopamine is a neurochemical that regulates motivation and desire. It thrives on change. We may experience less or no sexual appetite or desire for our partner after the 'honeymoon neurochemicals' has worn off. Instead, we could concentrate on advancing our careers or raising our children. It doesn't mean we don't love or care about our partners; it just means our sexual desire isn't as strong as it once was.
Boredom can drive some people to seek out new mating opportunities with willing virtual or real partners. The allure of online pornography is wreaking havoc on many relationships today. The Coolidge Effect explains why pornography, particularly internet pornography, is so appealing. At the swipe, click, or tap of a button, a constant stream of new and seemingly willing mates appears. There would be no internet porn without the Coolidge Effect. The primitive limbic brain has trouble distinguishing between real mates and virtual reality versions on a screen.
Exchanging bonding behaviors is highly recommended to help rekindle the spark. These are subliminal messages to the limbic brain that help to alleviate feelings of alienation or resentment. For more information, see this helpful article. Cupid's Poisoned Arrow- From Habit to Harmony in Sexual Relationships, This is what you'll find it. For a quick overview of the subject with the author, listen to this podcast.