Longitudinal Associations Among Relationship Satisfaction, Sexual Satisfaction, and Frequency of Sex in Early Marriage

Child marriage and quality of marriage among young married women in a rural district, Lorestan Province, Iran

PURPOSE

Child marriage remains a significant socio-cultural phenomenon with profound implications for the quality of marital relationships, particularly among young women. This study investigates the association between child marriage and the quality of marriage among young married women in Iran.

METHODS

This study employed a population-based cross-sectional research design. A total of 70 young women, aged 18-20 years, who had married before reaching 18 years of age, were selected from four primary health care (PHC) centers in Papi District, Lorestan Province, Iran, employing a systematic random sampling approach. Subjects were categorized into women experiencing relationship distress and those without such distress using the Quality of Marriage Index (QMI). Concurrently, their level of sexual satisfaction was assessed utilizing the Hudson's Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS). Furthermore, Social Support was evaluated using the Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ).

RESULTS

The mean age (SD) of women was 18.9 (0.7) years, and their mean age (SD) of marriage was 15.2 (2.1) years. Women experiencing distress showed significant differences in age of menarche (P = 0.006), education levels (P = 0.039), spouses' education (P = 0.025), spouses' occupations (P = 0.004), household income satisfaction (P = 0.041), and household structure (P = 0.045). Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis revealed significant and positive correlations between sexual self-efficacy and social support with marital quality (r = 0.73, p < 0.001 and r = 0.55, p < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, there was a significant negative correlation between the score of indexes of sexual satisfaction and marital quality (r = -0.65, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

These findings emphasize the complex factors affecting marital quality and underscore the urgent need for interventions to support young women in early marriages. It is essential to reinforce policies aimed at reducing child marriage to improve the quality of marriage among young married women.

Discrimination, Internalized Sexual Prejudice and the Post-Sex Experience Among Members of Sexual Minorities

Postcoital dysphoria (PCD) refers to a counter-intuitive experience of sadness, tearfulness, irritability or dysphoria following an otherwise satisfactory and consensual sexual experience. Research to date has primarily focused on heteronormative samples. The current study explored the prevalence of PCD, and potential correlates of internalized sexual prejudice, perceived discrimination, and sex life satisfaction within a LGBTQIA+ population. One hundred and seventy-two adults identifying as LGBTQIA+ completed an online survey. Main outcome measures included the Post Sex Experience Scale (p-SES), Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), Internalized Homophobia Scale (IHS), Satisfaction with Sex Life Scale (SWSLS), and study specific questions. Prevalence of PCD was 42% of males attracted to other males and 81% of participants identifying as bisexual/sexual fluid. A significant and a moderate inverse correlation was found between sex life satisfaction and PCD (r = -.75) for individuals identifying as bisexual/fluid sexual orientation. Significant correlations were found between perceived discrimination and PCD (weak positive correlation, r = .28), and sex life satisfaction and PCD (moderate negative correlation, r = -.59) in men attracted to men. This research suggests being a member of a sexual minority is associated with sex-related dysphoria and dissatisfaction. Further research is needed to further elucidate PCD.

Sexual well-being among partnered adults and couples over 60: a scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Although society still holds age-related stereotypes dismissing the sexuality of aging individuals, older adults remain sexually active and find sexuality to be an important part of their quality of life. Primarily oriented toward a biomedical and dysfunctional lens, prior research neglected the subjective well-being of elderly individuals, especially partnered adults and couples aged 60 years or more. Shedding a more positive light on this area of life could promote older individuals' and couples' sexual well-being.

OBJECTIVES

This scoping review aimed to synthetize the studies including community samples of partnered adults or couples over 60 who reported on various indicators of subjective sexual well-being including sexual satisfaction, distress, and function using validated measures.

METHODS

Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMAScR), the electronic literature search was conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline, and CINAHL for peer-reviewed journal articles published before July 2023.

RESULTS

Results showed how relational variables such as relationship satisfaction and intimacy emerge as important correlates of older adults' sexual well-being.

CONCLUSION

Avenues for future research arising from gaps in the studies identified thorough this scoping review, including the underrepresentation of sexual/gender diverse individuals and the use of single and/or non-validated items to assess sexual well-being, are discussed.

Reclaiming Pleasure: Does Satisfying Consensual Sexual Activity Predict Next-Day Positive Affect Among Women with a History of Sexual Assault?

Substantial research documents the psychosocial benefits of sexual activity, including heightened positive affect and lowered negative affect following sexual encounters. However, it is important to examine whether affective benefits of consensual sexual activity are present among individuals who have also experienced non-consensual sexual activity (i.e. sexual assault), given that sexual assault may have harmful consequences for sexual functioning and pleasure during consensual encounters. This study tested consensual sexual activity and satisfaction as predictors of next-day positive and negative affect among 82 women sexual assault survivors. Participants completed ecological momentary assessment measures for three weeks, including measures of past-day dyadic (i.e. partnered) sexual activity and satisfaction in the morning and current affect in the afternoon. As hypothesized, dyadic sexual activity and greater than usual sexual satisfaction predicted increased next-day positive affect after controlling for past-day positive affect. In contrast, and partially supporting hypotheses, sexual satisfaction, but not activity alone, predicted lowered next-day negative affect after controlling for past-day negative affect. At the between person level, greater sexual satisfaction (but not overall frequency of dyadic sexual activity) was associated with greater positive and lower negative affect on average after controlling for several covariates. Findings indicate that satisfying dyadic sexual encounters lead to relatively long-lasting positive affect changes in women who have experienced sexual assault.

Cracking the code to female sexual satisfaction: the serial mediation of sexual behavior and the perceived importance of healthy sexuality from sexual self-efficacy

Introduction

Sexual satisfaction has been shown to have a strong association with many aspects of sexual health and wellbeing. It is further considered a robust indicator of an individual's health status and general wellbeing, revealing that a person can enjoy pleasurable and healthy sexual experiences, beyond the mere absence of sexual and reproductive health issues.

Objectives

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between sexual satisfaction, sexual behaviors, sexual self-efficacy, and the importance personally attributed to maintaining an active and satisfying sexual life among young and middle-aged women aged 18-50.

Design

A descriptive correlational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted.

Methods

Participants (N = 1,076 women) completed self-reports on sexual self-efficacy beliefs, frequency of sexual behaviors, the importance attributed to active and healthy sexuality, and multidimensional sexual satisfaction.

Results

The supported mediation model indicated that sexual self-efficacy was related to sexual satisfaction directly and indirectly through sexual behavior and a serial path through sexual behavior and the perceived importance of healthy sexuality. The total effect was significant, and the full model explained 7.3% of the global sexual satisfaction variance (F = 17.218, p = 0.000), with the mediated effect accounting for 44.3%.

Conclusion

This study confirms a partial serial mediation model by which sexual self-efficacy significantly predicts sexual satisfaction through sexual behaviors and the importance attributed to a healthy sexuality. Due to its significant contribution, the perceived importance of sexuality should be considered when studying correlates of sexual satisfaction. These findings have interesting implications for the development of strategies aimed at sexual health promotion and sexual education among women in early and middle adulthood.

Sexual Function in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Living in Stable Heterosexual Relationships: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objective: The prevalence and character of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have not been precisely determined. The aim of this study was to assess FSD using the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ-14) in women with PCOS and their partners compared to a control group, as well as correlations between five subscales, the total score of the CSFQ, and seven questions of the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Methods: The study sample (N = 160) comprised two groups: (1) women with PCOS and their partners (n = 91) and (2) women without PCOS and their partners (control group; n = 69). Results: The total scores of the CSFQ did not reveal FSD in either group of women. Regarding all subscales and the total score, the analysis showed a statistically significant difference between women and their partners (in all cases: p < 0.001). The discrepancy in arousal between women and men in the PCOS group was large (the mean difference was -2.32; t = -11.29, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = -1.26). The importance (VAS1), the level (VAS7) of sexual satisfaction, and the intensity of sexual thoughts (VAS2) correlated with almost all domains of the CSFQ. Conclusions: In conclusion, normal sexual function in PCOS does not mean proper sexual functioning in a sexual relationship.

Balance and deep connections: the impact of physical activity on body and sexual self-esteem, psychological distress, and marital satisfaction among adults

To date, no research has examined the relationship between sexual self-esteem, body self-esteem, psychological distress, marital satisfaction, and engagement in physical activities. Through a study involving 443 adults the aim of this research was to analyze the connections between engaging in physical activities, body self-esteem, sexual self-esteem, marital satisfaction, and psychological distress among adults. The results obtained through Partial Least Squares (PLS) modeling with SmartPLS reveal significant interconnections among these variables. The correlation between body self-esteem and psychological distress, the positive relationship between sexual satisfaction and positive sexual self-esteem, as well as the beneficial influence of engaging in physical activities on marital satisfaction, are key highlights of this study. The robustness of the measures, confirmed by high coefficients, strengthens the credibility of the results. Despite these advancements, the cross-sectional nature of the study emphasizes the need for longitudinal research to gain a deeper understanding of psychological and relational dynamics over time. In conclusion, this study offers significant contributions to promoting balanced marital relationships, highlighting the importance of considering body and sexual self-esteem, psychological distress, and physical activity within the context of human relationships.

Predictors of sexual satisfaction among patients with chronic pain

Objectives

Sexual satisfaction is an important aspect of quality of life. Chronic pain, depression and anxiety, and relational problems correspond with higher risk for sexual difficulties. Less is known about how risk factors for sexual dysfunction and other problems-such as medical conditions, pain severity, and medication side effects-affect the sexual satisfaction of people with chronic pain. Using a biopsychosocial framework, this study explored factors related to sexual satisfaction among patients presenting for evaluation of chronic pain.

Methods

Researchers used a hierarchical multiple regression analysis to model potential predictors of sexual satisfaction. Variables analyzed were demographic features, medical history, average pain severity, depressed mood, anxiety, and perceived significant other support. Data collection involved administration of retrospective questionnaires and chart review. The sample included male and female participants (N = 134) presenting for evaluation at a multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation clinic.

Results

Medical history (i.e., medical conditions, surgical history, and medications) and clinical self-report variables (i.e., pain severity, depressed mood, anxiety, and perceived significant other support) were associated with sexual satisfaction. In this sample, antidepressant use and higher pain severity were unique predictors of lower sexual satisfaction. Married marital status and higher levels of perceived significant other support were predictive of greater sexual satisfaction.

Discussion

Findings highlight the importance of understanding the unique impact of biopsychosocial variables on the sexual satisfaction of patients presenting for evaluation at a multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation clinic. Further exploration of protective factors that account for sexual satisfaction among individuals with chronic pain may help inform screening, referrals, and treatment.

Dyadic associations and prediction of maternal and paternal sexual satisfaction in couples-Findings from an 18-year longitudinal study

Background

: Sexual satisfaction is one of many crucial factors for the long-term success of romantic relationships. Longitudinal studies examining the dyadic associations between maternal and paternal factors in middle adulthood for predicting sexual satisfaction in later adulthood are scarce.

Method

The German longitudinal intervention study "Future Family" followed families with at least one child over 18-years (Pre: N = 477, mothers: M = 35.2 years, fathers: M = 38.8 years, children: M = 4.1 years). At the time of the 18-year follow-up, N = 150 mothers (M = 54.1 years) were still living together with the biological fathers (M = 56.1 years; mean relationship duration: 32 years). Dyadic associations between individual and dyadic factors at Pre were analyzed with Actor-Partner Interdependence models to predict sexual satisfaction 18 years later.

Results

Higher relationship quality was significantly associated with higher levels of one's own sexual satisfaction 18 years later. Higher levels of maternal and paternal mental health problems were linked to lower levels of sexual satisfaction in both the individual themselves and their partner. General life satisfaction of mothers and fathers only predicted their own sexual satisfaction. The model for dysfunctional parenting yielded no significant effects.

Conclusions

The results indicate that relationship quality, mental health problems, and general life satisfaction of both parents could be starting points for preventive and therapeutic interventions to achieve long-term effects in sexual satisfaction in married couples.

Lay understanding and experience of sexual intercourse among couples with infertility undergoing an assisted reproduction technology program: A qualitative study

Aim

To explore the perception and lay understanding of sexual intercourse and sexual life experiences among infertile couples before, during, and after undergoing an assisted reproduction technology (ART) program.

Method

The participants of this descriptive qualitative study were Indonesian couples with infertility who underwent an ART program. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between September and December 2022, and the participants' responses were recorded. Data were analyzed using a step-by-step analysis based on Braun's qualitative analysis. The study was reported based on the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting a Qualitative Research (COREQ) Checklist.

Results

Fifty participants were included, and five themes were developed before and two themes during or after the ART program. The couples' knowledge varied as they experienced sexual intercourse at different periods, such as before, during, and after the ART program. Many participants reported that ART affected their emotions and mood, leading to decreased desire to engage in sexual intercourse. However, some used sexual intercourse as a basis for creating optimism and confidence in having offspring. Furthermore, couples perceived that the purpose of sexual intercourse is not only to have offspring but also to improve communication, promote intimacy, and express affection. In contrast, some perceived the ART program as time consuming, preventing them from engaging in sexual activities. However, not all couples considered sexual activity solely as a means of procreation. They concluded that sexual behavior is not only determined by genetics.

Conclusion

Couples who underwent the ART program regardless of its effectiveness were aware that sexual interaction is not only for having children but also for preserving harmony and familial connection.

The Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation in the Relationship Between Sexual Mindfulness and Relational Quality in a Sample of Iranian Women

Mindfulness during sex has shown many positive relational and sexual outcomes. However, little is known about the ways in which sexual mindfulness works to improve an individual's experience. This study investigated the mediating role of emotion regulation strategies in the relationship between sexual mindfulness and relational quality in a sample of Iranian women. Using a multi-stage cluster sampling method, we examined data from 265 women aged 19 to 50 years (M = 31.76, SD = 8.47). Results showed a significant positive relationship between relational quality and sexual mindfulness (p < .001, β = .13), sexual mindfulness and reappraisal strategy (p < .001, β = .65), and relational quality and reappraisal strategy (p < .001, β = .78). The reduction of the path coefficient in the full mediation model compared to the direct model indicating a partial mediation role of the reappraisal strategy was confirmed in relation to sexual mindfulness and relational quality. These findings may help identify one path, emotion regulation, through which sexual mindfulness works. This study provides psychologists and counselors evidence that both sexual mindfulness and emotion regulation are positive skills that likely improve the quality of their clients' relationships.

Effects of stress management and relationship-enrichment counseling on sexual and marital satisfaction of working women with high occupational stress

BACKGROUND

Industrialization of societies has placed considerable stress on employees influencing marital and sexual satisfaction. This study investigated the effects of stress management (SM) and relationship enrichment (RE) counseling on marital and sexual satisfaction in stressed women working at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences hospitals, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this quasi-experimental study, 75 nurses and midwives experiencing moderate-to-severe occupational stress after obtaining written informed consent were assigned to SM and RE counseling and control groups randomly. The SM and RE attended six-related counseling sessions, and control group received no intervention. The participants completed Osipow's Revised Occupational Stress Inventory (OSI-R), ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, and Larson's Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire before and 2 weeks after the intervention. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA.

RESULTS

SM counseling led to relatively good increase in sexual satisfaction. In addition, there was no significant difference between the three groups in the mean occupational stress scores and marital satisfaction scores.

CONCLUSION

SM counseling increased the level of sexual satisfaction. The approaches had no significant effect on occupational stress and marital satisfaction. Further studies are required to identify the best counseling approaches.

Wives with long and high-quality hair have more frequent sex

The image of an ideal woman often involves her having long, silky hair. However, the dearth of psychological research on hair limits the understanding of how women's hair functions in romantic relationships. While some scholars have found that the appearance of women's hair signals reproductive potential to men, whether women's hair may affect their sexual lives remains unknown. To investigate the function of hair in romantic relationships, we tested whether women's hair quality and length are associated with sexual frequency in marital dyads. We conducted a paid online survey involving 204 heterosexual marital dyads. The results indicated that women with long and high-quality hair experienced more frequent sexual intercourse with their spouse, as it heightened their husband's perception of their attractiveness and, consequently, intensified their husband's sexual desire toward them. Neither men's hair length nor quality was associated with sexual frequency. Implications of the study are further discussed.

Which Came First, the Money or the Sex? Bidirectional, Indirect Associations between Financial Management Behaviors and Sexual Satisfaction among Newlywed Couples

Scholars have established connections between how married couples navigate their finances and their sexual relationship. For example, financial management behaviors are associated with sexual satisfaction among newlywed couples. However, we know very little about the direction of the association between financial management behaviors and sexual satisfaction. Understanding which might predict the other, or if there might be a bidirectional association between the two, could provide information on where to intervene to help newlywed couples with financial or sexual obstacles in their marriage. With three waves of dyadic data (N = 1,205 U.S. newlywed couples), we used structural equation modeling to examine the bidirectional, indirect associations between husbands' and wives' financial management behaviors and their own sexual satisfaction through their own marital satisfaction. Overall, we found that financial management behaviors indirectly predicted changes in sexual satisfaction through marital satisfaction for both husbands and wives. We also found limited evidence that husbands' sexual satisfaction indirectly predicted changes in their own financial management behaviors through their own marital satisfaction. Additionally, these indirect associations differed by gender. Partner effects, however, were largely non-significant. Implications of these findings for those who help newlywed couples with their sexual relationships are discussed.

Is Spontaneous Sex Ideal? Beliefs and Perceptions of Spontaneous and Planned Sex and Sexual Satisfaction in Romantic Relationships

Sexual satisfaction is critical for relationship quality and people hold lay beliefs (implicit theories) about what makes for satisfying sex. A common belief in Western culture is that spontaneous sex is most satisfying, but this idea has not yet been studied. In pre-registered analyses of two studies - a cross sectional (N = 303 individuals) and a 21-day daily experience study (N = 121 couples) - we found support for two distinct beliefs (spontaneous sex as satisfying; planned sex as satisfying). Across both studies, people held stronger beliefs that spontaneous sex is satisfying compared to planned sex, but stronger spontaneous sex beliefs were only associated with higher sexual satisfaction in Study 1. In Study 1, when people perceived their most recent sexual experience as planned (versus spontaneous), they felt less sexually satisfied, but this was not the case for those who endorsed stronger planned sex beliefs. In Study 2, endorsing stronger planned sex beliefs was associated with a partner's lower sexual satisfaction at baseline. There were no associations between perceptions of the extent to which sex was spontaneous and sexual satisfaction at baseline or in daily life. Future research could test whether beliefs about spontaneity and planning have value in clinical settings.

Orgasm Consistency in Mixed-Gender Couples: Actor, Partner, and Discrepancy Effects from Dyadic Response Surface Analysis

The potential link between orgasm consistency (i.e., the percentage of time an individual experiences orgasm during sexual interactions with a partner) and sexual satisfaction in mixed-gender sexual relationships remains underexamined in the literature. We combined two dyadic samples (N = 725 couples) and utilized Dyadic Response Surface Analysis (DRSA) to examine how both partners' orgasm consistency and their discrepancy of orgasm consistency predict both partners' sexual satisfaction. We found that partners' discrepancy in orgasm consistency was not uniquely connected to higher sexual satisfaction for either women or men; rather, the overall consistency of orgasm was connected to better sexual satisfaction for both partners. In addition, there was some evidence tentatively suggesting that men were more likely than women to report lower sexual satisfaction if his partner was orgasming more consistently than he was, as opposed to her reporting lower sexual satisfaction from him orgasming more consistently than she was; though this appears to be a rare scenario as only 5.9% of couples had women who orgasmed more consistently than men. This study may assist educators and clinicians as they help couples consider the sexual scripts surrounding orgasm consistency, and how they can attend to each others' desires in a way that maximizes sexual satisfaction for both partners.

Doing it all: Effects of Family Responsibilities and Marital Relationship Quality on Mothers' Ambulatory Blood Pressure

BACKGROUND

The shared provider responsibility between married couples does not translate to equally shared division of childcare (CC) and household labor. While some marriages contain highly positive aspects, marriages may also simultaneously contain both positive and negative aspects. The negativity in these relationships can negate the positivity and could potentially lead to the detriment of mothers' health.

PURPOSE

We examined mothers' ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) associated with their marital relationship quality and perceived equity with her spouse on CC and household tasks.

METHODS

We investigate these associations using a mixed multilevel model analysis on a sample of 224 mothers in heterosexual marriages, all of whom had children under the age of 18 years currently living in the home.

RESULTS

Mothers' perception of equity in the division of CC responsibilities contributed to lower ABP. Additionally, mothers in supportive marital relationships (low negativity and high positivity) had lower ABP than those in ambivalent relationships (both high negativity and positivity). There was a crossover interaction such that the effect of relationship quality on ABP was moderated by the perception of equity in the division of CC. For mothers who report doing all the CC, they had lower ABP if they had a supportive marital relationship compared with mothers in ambivalent relationships. Whereas mothers who report more equity in CC and have a supportive relationship have higher ABP compared with mothers in ambivalent relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has implications related to dynamics within marital relationships. These results demonstrate important relational influences on mothers' ABP.

Is the association of sexual quality with relationship satisfaction really stronger when the sexual relationship is functioning poorly?

The purpose of this article is to bring empirical evidence to the oft-quoted assumption that sexual quality has a stronger association with the overall relationship when sexuality is dysfunctional as compared to when it is optimal. Using three national samples to analyze a structural equation model, the results verified this assumption with some adaptations. There was an interaction between the association of sexual quality and the overall relationship depending on how sexually satisfied couples were in the sexuality area. However, it was when sexuality was only moderately satisfying rather than at high or low levels that it had the strongest associations with relationship satisfaction. Also, female sexual quality had a significant association with both partner's relationship satisfaction whereas male's sexual quality only had actor effects. Additionally, the sexual relationship had a stronger association with relationship satisfaction and dissatisfaction for couples who reported both low levels of sexual satisfaction and dissatisfaction.

Married women's response to spousal pornography use: A grounded theory

Empirical research suggests that married women may more commonly experience spousal pornography use as a relational attachment threat and are more likely to experience negative relational outcomes such as distress and loss of trust. The purpose of this study was to develop a grounded theory of married women's response to the discovery or disclosure of spousal pornography use. This study included the experiences of 30 married women who reported spousal pornography use as a threat to relational attachment, who chose to remain with their spouse, and who reported evidence of individual and relational healing thereafter. The research question, "How do married women describe the experience of learning of their spouse's pornography use and the individual and relationship sequelae that follow?" was explored using grounded theory methods to analyze deidentified blogpost accounts emphasizing response to a spouse's pornography use. The results describe a process model highlighting three interrelated informant categories-emotional response, mental response, and physical response-and one resultant category-behavioral response. Implications include (a) the importance of open communication regarding pornography use within relationships, (b) the necessity for individual and relational healing following betrayal trauma, and (c) the role of therapeutic intervention in shaping adaptive healing processes.

Effects of Subjective Orgasm Experience in Sexual Satisfaction: A Dyadic Analysis in Same-Sex Hispanic Couples

Subjective orgasm experience (SOE) is a component of sexual health that refers to the perception, sensation and/or appraisal of orgasm at a psychological level. This construct has scarcely been studied in non-heterosexual individuals and couples, and never before from a dyadic perspective. In this study, in which 104 same-sex Hispanic couples participated (48 male-male and 56 female-female), we explored the dyadic influence of SOE dimensions on sexual satisfaction, the mediating role of relationship satisfaction on the association of both phases of sexual response, as well as the explanatory capacity that discrepancies in these dimensions had on sexual satisfaction. The results indicated that the orgasmic dimensions that gained more prominence were Affective and Sensory. A dyadic influence of both on sexual satisfaction was observed only in male couples, as well as a detriment of sexual satisfaction when there were discrepancies in them, especially in women. Moreover, relationship satisfaction was a significant mediator between all dimensions of SOE and sexual satisfaction in both types of couples. This work highlights the need to take into account the SOE of both partners and how this individual experience can affect other dimensions of a more interpersonal nature, such as sexual or relationship satisfaction.

The Link Between Sexual Disagreements and Separation Proneness: Differences Between Men and Women in a Culturally Diverse Sample

Traditional gender ideologies suggest that sexual disagreements are associated with union instability more strongly among men than among women. Previous studies of this topic were based on one panel survey initiated in the United States in the late 1980s and they provided contradictory results. We revisited this issue using the Generations and Gender Survey, a more recent panel that interviewed 19,446 respondents (43.3% were male and 56.7% were female; M age = 44.72, SD = 13.49) in mixed-sex partnerships in seven European countries. The results show that the association between sexual disagreements and separation proneness is stronger among women than among men. This conclusion contradicts expectations based on traditional feminine and masculine ideologies and indicates that the role of sexual disagreements in union instability deviates from traditional expectations.

Associations between Genital Self-Image and Individuals' Own and Perceived Partner Sexual Satisfaction

Negative genital self-image is linked with lower sexual satisfaction, but no research has examined its association with perceptions of partners' sexual satisfaction. In two studies (N = 475, N = 234), we examined links between genital self-image and own and individuals' perceived partner sexual satisfaction. In the second study, we tested whether a mindfulness intervention moderated these associations. In both studies, more negative genital self-image was significantly associated with individuals' lower own and perceived partner sexual satisfaction concurrently and over a two-week period. Mindfulness intervention exposure did not moderate associations. Findings support negative genital self-image as a risk factor for sexual dissatisfaction.

(Un)forgotten Sex Lives During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Coping Strategies That Work and the Role of Experience

Available literature points to a worsening trend in sexual functioning, desire, and satisfaction during the pandemic. Nevertheless, virtually no empirical research was conducted on the mechanisms of coping with the pandemic's impacts on sex life. Thus, the purpose of this exploratory study was to examine a variety of coping mechanisms and their perceived usefulness by people who have and have not tried these coping strategies to maintain and enhance their sex lives during the first year of the pandemic. The cross-sectional data were collected using an online survey methodology (N = 420; 66.9% women) and analyzed utilizing exploratory factor analysis, analysis of variance, and multiple regression. The results revealed nine factors/coping mechanisms (based on 59 items/strategies), including goal-setting strategies, risk and experimentation strategies, relational strategies, caution and logistical strategies, creativity and innovation strategies, substances and context-related strategies, online and technology strategies, diversion strategies, and educational strategies. Consistently, across all the specific coping strategies and overall coping mechanisms, people who tried them found them significantly more useful than those who had not tried these coping strategies. Moreover, a higher diversity of tried strategies per coping mechanism consistently and significantly predicted the perceived usefulness of that coping mechanism. These results emphasize the crucial role of experience with coping mechanisms and show that amidst COVID-related adversity and challenges, many people found ways to adapt their sex lives and enjoy silver-lining opportunities. This exploratory study offers promising evidence for potential sexual coping strategies during times of stress that could be informative for clinical practice and education.

Let's Talk about Sleep Baby: Sexual Activity Postpartum and Its Links with Room Sharing, Parent Sleep, and Objectively Measured Infant Sleep and Parent Nighttime Crib Visits

The postpartum period may pose a considerable challenge for both parent sleep and sexual activity. This study assessed the links between partnered sexual frequency and satisfaction postpartum and parent sleep, infant sleep, parent nighttime caregiving, and parent-infant room sharing. Participants were 897 parents of infants aged 1-18-months (M = 8.8 ± 4.3, 49% girls). Parents completed an online survey about their sexual frequency and satisfaction, sleep, relationship satisfaction, depression, and demographic characteristics. Infant sleep and parent nighttime crib visits were measured objectively using auto-videosomnography during 2-weeks, with 8,460 nights assessed. Results indicated that the frequency of partnered sexual activity was 3.8 ± 4.2 times per month. Frequency of sexual activity increased with infant age, yet increases beyond the first 6 months postpartum were non-significant. Adjusted GEE modeling revealed that more parent nighttime crib visits were significantly associated with lower sexual frequency, regardless of infant age. Other parent and infant sleep-related factors were not significantly linked with sexual frequency in adjusted models. Moreover, sexual satisfaction was not associated with parent nighttime caregiving, parent or infant sleep, or parent-infant sleeping arrangements in adjusted models, suggesting that it may not be susceptible to the effects of disrupted sleep in the postpartum period. These findings suggest that it is not infant or parent sleep disruption per se, but rather parent nighttime engagement with the infant that is associated with parent sexual activity frequency. Longitudinal investigations are warranted to examine the directional pathways of these links.

Psychometric Evaluation and Adaptation of the Five-Factor Sexual Satisfaction Scale (SSS-W) for Use in Men: The Sexual Satisfaction Scale (SSS)

The Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women (SSS-W) is a psychometrically sound, widely used instrument for assessing sexual satisfaction and distress in women. Because the majority of scale items are gender nonspecific, numerous researchers have adapted this scale for use in male samples. The goal of the current study was to assess the reliability and validity of a slightly modified version of the SSS-W in a male sample (N = 268). A Confirmatory Factor Analysis of five previously established factors provided evidence for consistency of internal structure in men. The adapted scale (SSS) exhibited acceptable test-retest reliability, as well as evidence for validity based on relationships with theoretically predicted variables. Taken together, there is evidence to suggest that the SSS may be a reliable and valid psychometric tool for the measurement of sexual satisfaction and distress in both men and women.

Exploring the challenges of men who married to adolescent girls in Western Iran: A qualitative study

Background and Aims

Men face many challenges in their lives with adolescent girls that need to be identified. No research has been conducted in this field in Iran. This research aimed to explore the challenges of men married to adolescent girls in western Iran using a qualitative approach.

Methods

This research was conducted using qualitative methods and a conventional content analysis approach. Participants were 28 men in western Iran who had the experience of marrying girls under 18 years of age. Semi-structured interviews were used both face-to-face and over the phone to collect data. Also, snowballing and purposeful sampling were used to select the participants. The data were also analysed using Granheim and Lundman's approach.

Results

From the data analysis, 1 category, 9 subcategories, and 103 primary codes were obtained. The main category was lack of empathy and consensus, which includes the subcategories of sexual dissatisfaction, girls' dependence on the family, inability to fulfill the roles of a wife, not being understood in life, remaining in the world of childhood, emotional divorce, limiting progress and preventing the achievement of goals, betrayal, and chaotic life.

Conclusion

Young couples problems can be solved by measures such as giving sex education and teaching skills necessary for married life, such as problem solving skills and anger control, to adolescent men and girls, as well as training families on how to properly support adolescent couples.

Toward an Integrative Model of Intimacy, Sexual Satisfaction, and Relationship Satisfaction: A Prospective Study in Long-Term Couples

Sexual and relationship well-being are strongly intertwined in couple relationships. However, relationship quality is generally examined through relationship satisfaction only, neglecting the importance of sexual satisfaction as an aspect of relationship quality for many couples. Moreover, considering the role of interpersonal processes, such as intimacy, in relationship quality seems essential to better understand couples' optimal functioning. Although the Vulnerability-Stress-Adaptation Model posits bidirectional associations between interpersonal processes and relationship quality, few studies have tested such models. This dyadic study examined the longitudinal associations between the process of intimacy and sexual and relationship satisfaction in 145 long-term mixed-gender/sex couples. Participants completed online questionnaires three times over 13 months. A cross-lagged panel model revealed bidirectional associations between intimacy behaviors and both sexual and relationship satisfaction. Findings suggest that intimacy behaviors could foster both sexual and relationship satisfaction in couples, and that higher sexual and relationship satisfaction could also promote intimacy behaviors over time. These results highlight that satisfaction may not only be an outcome of positive interpersonal processes, but also a facilitator of these interpersonal processes over time. This study underscores the need to consider the complex interplay of interpersonal processes and satisfaction to foster relationship quality in long-term couples over time.

Women's strategies for navigating a healthy sex life post-sexual trauma

Sexual trauma is common. Consequences of sexual trauma can include deterioration of mental and physical health and it can also affect future romantic and sexual relationships. Previous studies have identified common healthy and destructive coping mechanisms to recover after experiencing sexual trauma, but few studies have investigated useful strategies to move into a healthy sexual relationship focused on resilience. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 41 women with a history of sexual trauma who were in a healthy sexual relationship at the time of participation. Participants provided strategies that helped them move beyond the sexually traumatic event(s) toward a healthy sexual relationship. Reflexive thematic analysis identified 5 effective and 6 ineffective strategies reported by the participants. Rich examples of resilience and empowerment were overarching in the effective strategies used for moving toward healthy sexual relationships. Women were also able to reflect on the strategies that were ineffective for them with kindness and understanding for their coping at that time, a normalizing theme for women working through sexual trauma. The results of this study will help therapists and researchers working with women who have experienced sexual trauma learn from their experiences in working beyond trauma toward a healthy sexual relationship.

The Power of Mindfulness: Examining Power Imbalances, Mindfulness, and Couples' Relational and Sexual Well-Being

Perceptions of power imbalance are common in relationships. We used the relational model of mindfulness to examine links between marital perceptions of power, relational and sexual well-being and to evaluate whether trait mindfulness and sexual mindfulness moderate these associations. Using a nationally representative sample (N = 1,519 couples at Wave III) of mixed-sex newlywed couples, an actor-partner-interdependence model indicated that trait mindfulness and state sexually mindful awareness buffered the link between men's and women's own perceived power imbalance and relational well-being. Sexually mindful non-judgment, however, accentuated the negative association between perceived power imbalance and sexual well-being for men. We discuss the need for therapists to consider the need to encourage mindful awareness to attenuate perceptions of power imbalances and to evaluate how sexually mindful non-judgment influences men's feelings of sexual well-being. Therapeutic implications of these findings are also discussed.

Singles Not Sexually Satisfied? Prevalence and Predictors of Sexual Satisfaction in Single versus Partnered Adults

Objective

The present study assesses the importance of individual, sexual behavioral, and evaluative factors on sexual satisfaction among single and partnered adults.

Method

Using data from a large web-sample of single (n = 1,075) and partnered (n = 3,063) individuals aged 18-89 from Norway.

Results

Higher contentment with sexual activity, sexual intercourse frequency, satisfaction with singlehood, and relationship satisfaction predicted higher sexual satisfaction, across relationship status and sex.

Conclusions

To tackle singlism and stereotypes about singles' sex lives, there is a need to further examine sexuality in singlehood.

Time for a Measurement Check-Up: Testing the Couple's Satisfaction Index and the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction Using Structural Equation Modeling and Item Response Theory

Relationship and sexual satisfaction are two central outcomes in the study of relationships and are commonly used in both academia and applied practice. However, relationship and sexual satisfaction measures infrequently undergo specific psychometric investigation. Ensuring that measures display strong psychometric performance is an important but under-tested element of replication that has come under more scrutiny lately, and adequate measurement of constructs is an important auxiliary assumption underpinning theory-testing empirical work. A measurement check-up was conducted, including Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to test factorial validity, measurement invariance to test for group comparability, and Item Response Theory (IRT) to assess the relationship between latent traits and their items/indicators. This format was used to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Couple's Satisfaction Index (CSI) and the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction (GMSEX), two commonly used scales of relationship and sexual satisfaction with a sample of 640 midlife (40-59 years old) married Canadians who were recruited by Qualtrics Panels. Results of CFA suggested that both models were satisfactory. Invariance testing provided robust support for intercept invariance across all the groupings tested. IRT analysis supported the CSI and GMSEX, however, there was evidence that the GMSEX provided somewhat less information for those high on sexual satisfaction. This measurement check-up found that the CSI and GMSEX were reasonably healthy with some caveats. Implications are discussed in terms of replicability and meaning for scholars and practitioners.

Effect of mindfulness on sexual self-efficacy and sexual satisfaction among Iranian postmenopausal women: a quasi-experimental study

Background

Menopause with anatomical, physiological, and psychological changes can affect sexual satisfaction and consequently the quality of life.

Aims

The study sought to evaluate the effects of mindfulness-based counseling on sexual self-efficacy and sexual satisfaction among Iranian postmenopausal women.

Methods

This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 110 women who were assigned to an intervention group (n = 55) and a control group (n = 55). The intervention group received 8 sessions of mindfulness-based training and daily mindfulness exercises. Data collection tools included questionnaires of demographics and midwifery, sexual self-efficacy, and sexual satisfaction. They were completed before and 8 weeks after the intervention. The collected data were analyzed through a t test, a chi-square test, and repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Outcomes

Changes in sexual self-efficacy and sexual satisfaction scores were evaluated.

Results

The mindfulness-based intervention significantly improved sexual self-efficacy (F = 146.98, P = .000, ^ƞ2 = 0.576) and sexual satisfaction (F = 129.47, P = .000, ^ƞ2 = 0.545) over time. The mean scores of sexual self-efficacy (17.03 ± 2.08) and sexual satisfaction (87.94 ± 8.26) in the intervention group increased after the intervention as opposed to the mean scores of sexual self-efficacy (12.65 ± 1.70) and sexual satisfaction (76.61 ± 6.45) in the control group.

Clinical Implications

Mindfulness training can improve sexual self-efficacy and sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women.

Strengths and Limitations

The intervention was implemented on a population of menopausal women in a culture in which the expression of sexual issues is taboo and has not been noticed in the past. The main limitation of this study was self-reporting, which may have affected the responses. The next limitation was the nonrandomized controlled design. Finally, the research sample included menopausal women who were heterosexual and married. Hence, the findings may not be generalizable to more diverse samples. In this study, psychological maladjustment or psychological distress was not analyzed. They should also be considered in future research.

Conclusion

According to the results, it is advisable to employ mindfulness-based intervention in routine care, because it can improve different aspects of menopausal women's life.

Sexual Coping Mechanisms During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Determinants of Use, Usefulness, and Effects on Sex Life

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on many people's sex lives. The ways people cope with these adverse impacts are an urgent area that needs to be recognized by sexual health researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. Thus, this study investigated sexual coping mechanisms during the pandemic while clarifying their determinants of use and usefulness and examining their impacts on the quantity and quality of sex life.

Methods

The cross-sectional data (N = 675) were collected using an online survey methodology in February-May 2021. The data were analyzed with one-sample and independent-samples t-tests, one-way between-subjects ANOVA, and multivariate multiple regression.

Results

This study identified eight sexual coping mechanisms during the pandemic, including creativity and pleasure, diversion, goal-setting, relational, educational, caution and logistical, online and technological, and innovation and experimentation strategies. All the coping mechanisms were used and rated significantly useful, albeit to different degrees. Gender, availability of a sex partner, the existence of children, and age served as determinants of different coping mechanisms' scope of use and degree of usefulness. The coping mechanisms predicted the frequency of sexual activity, sexual desire, and satisfaction with sex life during the pandemic.

Conclusions

This study's results can help scholars and practitioners prevent or mitigate the deterioration of sex life during the pandemics and other crises and stressors. It is essential to train people concerning sexual coping resources and strategies to protect their sexual wellbeing and quality of life.

Policy Implications

Health researchers, practitioners, and policymakers must consider maintaining sexual health as an essential service. Recognizing sexual health, rights, education, and counseling is a prerequisite for appropriate prevention measures during the pandemic. It is vital to ensure the availability of proper resources supporting people's sexual coping processes during and after the pandemic.

Sex or Socialization? Replicating Heterosexual Couples' Gender Differences in the Association between Orgasm and Satisfaction in Same-Gender/Sex Couples

Orgasm is commonly considered an important aspect of sexual activity. The current study sought to replicate and extend prior work by examining gender/sex differences in the association between orgasm and satisfaction in a sample of same-gender/sex couples. We also examined how desire for an orgasm moderated this association. Although prior research found a curvilinear association between orgasm and satisfaction for heterosexual women (but not men), we found that orgasm curvilinearly predicted relationship and sexual satisfaction across genders/sexes, indicating more frequent orgasm was associated with higher satisfaction only to an extent for all individuals in our sample. We also found that when desire for orgasm was high, orgasm was associated with higher relationship and sexual satisfaction than when desire was low, suggesting that desire for orgasm may differentially affect how orgasm is related to satisfaction. We discuss our findings in terms of sexual scripting theory, contextualizing our results by considering the socially constructed nature of sexuality and how sexual scripts may vary across individuals with different sexual and gender identities.

Psychological, Socio-Demographic, and Logistical Factors Associated With Changes in Sex Life After Over a Year Into the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study examined changes in sex life about a year into the COVID-19 pandemic for both partnered and non-partnered individuals and identified the determinants of these changes. The results of an online survey (N = 675) reflect a significant decrease in the frequency of intimate and sexual behaviors and declines in sexual desire, quality, intimacy, diversity, and satisfaction. This study also showed that socio-demographic characteristics, psychological factors, and the logistical impacts of the pandemic explain trends in people's sex lives during the pandemic. This study contributes to understanding the long(er)-term nature, scope, and determinants of changes in sex life during the pandemic.

The role of sexting in couple wellbeing for Italian women during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic

The social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the sexuality and quality of life of people around the world. A particularly negative effect was detected on women’s sexual health. As a consequence, many women began to use social media not only to stay in touch with their social networks, but as a way of maintaining sexual contact. The main aim of this research is to observe the positive effects of sexting in women’s wellbeing as a strategy to manage the negative effects of a condition of forced isolation. We collected all our data between November 2020 and March 2021 during a period of strict restrictions in Italy due to the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Study 1, the relationship between loneliness, sexting behaviors, and sexual satisfaction was tested on 312 adult women. The results showed the mediator role of motivation for sexting in the relationship between loneliness and sexual satisfaction. In Study 2, 342 adult women were organized into two groups (women who had sexting at least once during the second wave of the pandemic = 203, and women who did not have sexting during the pandemic = 139) and were assessed on a couple’s wellbeing (intimacy, passion, commitment, and couple satisfaction) and electronic surveillance. The results show that women who had sexting during isolation had higher scores on intimacy, passion, couple satisfaction, and electronic surveillance. These findings suggest the important role of sexting as an adaptive coping strategy during particular conditions of social isolation.

Darling, Come Lay with Me or Talk with Me: Perceived Mattering and the Complementary Association between Sex and Communication within Marital Relationships

According to the theories on interpersonal mattering, reciprocal interactions and mutual engagements facilitate the formation of interpersonal mattering within relationships. However, the theoretical framework on mattering has rarely been applied to understand the roles of sexual and verbal exchanges within intimate relationships. To fill this research gap, the authors proposed that heightened perception of mattering captures the common mechanism through which both frequent sex and communication predict greater marital satisfaction. Building on this perspective, the study examined whether frequent sex and communication can compensate for the other in predicting marital satisfaction by sustaining the sense of mattering between spouses. Two survey studies were conducted using cross-cultural online samples (Study 1: Nkorean = 307 and NAmerican = 277) and a community sample of married dyads (Study 2: N = 286). Across these samples, the results demonstrated that the perceived sense of mattering to spouse mediated the effects of both sexual frequency and communication quantity on the couples' overall satisfaction with their marriage. Moreover, the results of the moderated mediation analyses supported the hypothesis that sexual frequency and communication quantity can moderate the effects of the other on marital satisfaction by providing a buffer on the couples' perceived sense of mattering to spouse.

Dyadic Profiles of Sexual Satisfaction among Chinese Newlywed Couples over Time

Although sexual satisfaction is a defining feature of marriage, research has consistently found that sexual satisfaction declines over time. Recently, however, emerging findings provide a more optimistic perspective on sexual satisfaction development by suggesting that couples may follow diverse sexual satisfaction trajectories. Using Dyadic Latent Class Growth Analysis, the current study is among the first to examine heterogeneity in couples' sexual satisfaction trajectory patterns during the early years of marriage and the first to do so in a non-Western context. Specifically, we establish distinct trajectory classes among 268 mixed-sex newlywed couples in China based on two couple-level features - the absolute level of sexual satisfaction and synchrony over time - and then compare these classes on subsequent ratings of marital instability. Four distinct trajectory patterns were found: a stable high class, a wives low and simultaneous deterioration class, a husbands low decrease-wives high stable class, and a wives high decrease-husbands high stable class. Couples in the stable high class reported lower levels of marital instability at two-year follow-up compared to couples in the other classes, suggesting that high sexual satisfaction and synchrony is beneficial for couples' marital relationships. These results provide further evidence challenging the inevitability of sexual satisfaction declines and have important implications for interventions aiming to enhance couples' sexual relationship.

Sexual dysfunction, depression, and marital dissatisfaction among Brazilian couples

BACKGROUND

Health professionals treating sexual dysfunction and relational dissatisfaction recognize that they are multifactorial phenomena, and depression can be bidirectionally associated with both.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate sexual dysfunction in heterosexual couples in relation to the quality of their marital relationship and depression symptoms.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 100 heterosexual couples recruited in Brazil. Both partners of each couple completed the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction and the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Marital Satisfaction, which were translated and adapted, and the Beck Depression Inventory, which was validated for the Brazilian population. Both partners completed their questionnaires separately, and the couple's surveys were linked to preserve conjugal data for dyadic analysis. The Actor-Partner Interdependence Model was used to understand how sexual dysfunction in couples is related to depression and relationship quality among and between partners.

RESULTS

Sexual dysfunction was found to be strongly associated with dissatisfaction in the relationship (husbands, β = 0.57, P < 0.001; wives, β = 0.60, P < 0.001), and a positive association was found between depressive symptoms and marital dissatisfaction (husbands, β = .32, P < .001; wives β = .40, P < .001).

CLINICAL IMPLICATION

The results suggest that it is important for health professionals to be aware of the dyadic impact of struggles with both sex and the relationship and the presence of depression symptoms in patients who seek care for sexual complaints or depression and who are in a marital relationship.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

The different results found for men and women may shed light on the biopsychosocial dimensions of human sexuality. When treated as a purely physical experience, sex is myopic. In this study we demonstrated psychosocial aspects associated with gender and sexuality, and the partner's variables were found to have a greater impact on women than they did on the men. A limitation of this study is that the sample is not generalizable as it is not demographically representative of all socioeconomic groups in Brazil. Furthermore, the participants in this sample did not have clinical levels of depression, so the results cannot be extended to couples in which one or both spouses have depressive disorder.

CONCLUSION

It was found that sexual dysfunction is strongly associated with the quality of the couple relationship, and that the quality of relationship plays a mediating role between depression and marital quality, especially for the women.

Retirement and Sexual Satisfaction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Although interest in sexuality in older age has increased over the last decades, few studies have focused on longitudinal change in sexual satisfaction around retirement age. In the present study, we studied change in sexual satisfaction across retirement in a sample of Swedish older adults with a partner.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Our analyses were based on n = 759 participants (359 male, 400 female) from the longitudinal Health, Aging, and Retirement Transitions in Sweden study. For this study, we used 5 waves spanning over a period of 4 years.

RESULTS

On average, sexual satisfaction did not change significantly before retirement, but decreased after retirement. Interestingly, women showed higher sexual satisfaction than men, as well as a more positive development of both pre- and postretirement sexual satisfaction. Individuals with higher relationship satisfaction had a higher sexual satisfaction until retirement, but their sexual satisfaction also decreased faster after retirement, whereas those with lower relationship satisfaction showed a stable but lower sexual satisfaction.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Sexual satisfaction can change in the retirement transition in several important ways and further studies on the impact of retirement and other late-life stage transitions are warranted.

A trifecta: patterns in orgasm consistency, relational satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction

BACKGROUND

We based this study on the sexual wholeness model, which considers emotional, physical, and meaning elements of sexuality, and previous research that indicates variability in the associations among orgasm consistency, relational satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction.

AIM

We performed a person-based latent class approach to examine variables linked with the trifecta of orgasm consistency, relational satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction.

METHODS

We used a Mechanical Turk sample that consisted of 1645 sexually active participants (1032 women) to evaluate classes and related variables.

OUTCOMES

Women divided into 5 classes and men into 3 classes. High orgasm consistency alone did not ensure sexual or relational satisfaction.

RESULTS

We found that 5 groups emerged for women: high orgasm/low satisfaction (6%), low trifecta (8%), low orgasm/high satisfaction (16%), moderate orgasm/high satisfaction (15%), and high trifecta (55%). For men, 3 groups emerged: lower orgasm/high satisfaction (12%), moderate trifecta (14%), and high trifecta (74%). We also found that high orgasm consistency for women did not guarantee relational and sexual satisfaction, nor did lower orgasm consistency for men or women guarantee problematic relational and sexual satisfaction.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Communication, attachment, and sexual harmony were key elements associated with positive trifecta outcomes. Clinicians and educators may emphasize the importance of these variables when individuals encounter sexual or relational distress.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

Data analytic techniques revealed a variety of groups for men and women and associations between a host of physical, psychological, and meaning variables and the trifecta of orgasm consistency, relational satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction. However, this study is cross-sectional and correlational, which limits the conclusions that we can draw from it.

CONCLUSION

While the variables of orgasm consistency, relational satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction are each informative, together they help clinicians, educators, and researchers better understand the complexity of sex.

Economic distress and perceptions of sexual intimacy in remarriage

Introduction

Economic distress and the relationship stability of remarried couples has been subject to some exploration, but less emphasis has been placed on how economic distress among remarried couples impacts other relationship domains, particularly sexual intimacy.

Methods

Through the lens of multidimensional family development theory (MFDT), this study utilizes longitudinal data over a three-year period to examine the links between economic distress, couple engagement, relationship satisfaction, and perceptions of sexual intimacy among remarried couples (n = 1,161 couples; 97% White).

Results

Through a dyadic structural equation model, results showed that wives' report of economic distress was directly related to their self-rejection of a partner's sexual advances. Findings also revealed gender differences in how both relationship satisfaction and couple engagement influenced one to accept or reject their partner's sexual advances, with couple engagement acting as a significant predictor for wives. Relationship satisfaction was also found to explain (i.e., mediate) the relation between economic distress and sexual intimacy, but only for husbands.

Discussion

Implications for further research and interventions designed to strengthen the relationships of remarried couples dealing with economic distress and intimacy issues are offered.

"Feeling It": Links between elements of compassion and sexual well-being

Introduction

Compassion may be a particularly important component of a sexual relationship as it facilitates needed self-awareness, understanding, and connection to frame deeply intimate expressions of sexual emotion and vulnerability. Given the lack of research on how broad concepts of compassionate elements may be linked to sexual well-being, we examine how mindfulness (an ability to maintain awareness in the present moment), compassionate relational attitudes (i.e., accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement), and compassionate relational behaviors (i.e., forgiveness and gratitude), are linked to sexual well-being (sexual harmony, orgasm consistency, and sexual frequency), and sexual mindfulness (a state of being mindful during sex) for oneself and one's partner.

Methods

We constructed an actor partner structural equation model with newly married couples (n = 2,111) and regressed sexual outcomes at time 1 and time 2 on each partner's compassionate attitudes, behaviors and mindfulness reported at time 1.

Results

Results showed that cross-sectionally, nearly all elements of one's compassion related to one's own sexual well-being for both partners. Strongest paths included positive significant relations for women between mindfulness and non-judgment and from compassionate relational attitudes and behaviors to sexual harmony. Men's compassionate behaviors were positively related to their own sexual awareness. Perhaps more importantly, women's and men's compassionate behaviors had significant effects on their partner's sexual well-being longitudinally.

Discussion

Implications include an emphasis on compassion as a key mechanism that can increase sexual satisfaction and strengthen relationships, particularly in the critical time of early marriage where patterns of interconnectedness are being established.

Exploring the Relationship between Early Adaptive Schemas and Sexual Satisfaction

Rationale

Early maladaptive schemas (EMS) develop from unmet core emotional needs during childhood and adolescence. EMS influence the way individuals perceive themselves and others, while also sharing associations with various sexual difficulties. Contrastingly, Early Adaptive Schemas (EAS) develop when core emotional needs are met. Yet, the potential influence of EAS on sexual wellbeing remains underinvestigated.

Objective

The current study assessed the relationship between EAS and sexual satisfaction as a primary component of sexual wellbeing.

Method

The study design was an online, cross-sectional survey. Participants included 732 adults (Mage = 32.05, SDage = 9.30), who completed self-report questionnaires assessing sexual satisfaction and EAS.

Results

Two, three-step hierarchical regressions evaluated the effect of EAS on sexual satisfaction, controlling for several potentially confounding variables. Results indicated that the only EAS that was associated with sexual satisfaction in both men and women was Realistic Expectations. EAS of Social Belonging and Success were associated with sexual satisfaction for women alone, whereas Self-Compassion was for men.

Conclusion

Findings provide preliminary evidence that EAS are associated with sexual satisfaction. As such, schema therapy may be a useful therapeutic framework for improving sexual satisfaction, when indicated.

Sexual Repertoire, Duration of Partnered Sex, Sexual Pleasure, and Orgasm: Findings from a US Nationally Representative Survey of Adults

In a confidential U.S. nationally representative survey of 2,525 adults (1300 women, 1225 men), we examined participants' event-level sexual behaviors, predictors of pleasure and orgasm, and perceived actual and ideal duration of sex, by gender and age. Event-level kissing, cuddling, vaginal intercourse, and oral sex were prevalent. Sexual choking was more prevalent among adults under 40. While women and men reported a similar actual duration of sex, men reported a longer ideal duration. Participants with same-sex partners reported a longer ideal duration than those with other-sex partners. Finally, findings show that gendered sexual inequities related to pleasure and orgasm persist.

Development of a Japanese Version of the Index of Sexual Satisfaction for Use in Couples with Young Children

The occurrence of sexual dysfunction in couples after childbirth is well recognized, yet sexual satisfaction in couples with young children (CYC) has received little research attention. This study sought to enable this construct to be measured by developing and validating a Japanese version of the Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS) in CYC. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Scale construction and validation were conducted using two independent samples drawn from 316 mothers and 272 fathers in Japan who had at least one child aged 6 or younger. Two underlying factors were identified using exploratory factor analysis: sexual satisfaction, measured by eight items, and sexual dissatisfaction, measured by three. Polychoric ordinal alpha coefficients indicated the reliability of the resulting scale (overall: 0.89, factor 1: 0.89, factor 2: 0.78), and confirmatory factor analysis and testing supported its validity, showing good model fit (goodness of fit index: 0.984, root mean square residual: 0.062) and satisfactory composite reliability (scale: 0.93, factor 1: 0.90, factor 2: 0.81) and average variance extracted (all ≥0.5). The Japanese version of the ISS for Couples with Young Children will be useful for investigating sexual satisfaction, which is essential to marital stability.

Evidence of a Bidirectional Association Between Daily Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction That Is Moderated by Daily Stress

Prior research provides mixed evidence regarding the direction of the association between sexual and marital satisfaction. Whereas some studies suggest a bidirectional association, other studies fail to document one direction or the other. The current investigation used a 12-day diary study of 287 married individuals to clarify the nature of this association. Results from time-lagged mixed modeling revealed a significant positive bidirectional association. Both higher global sexual satisfaction one day and satisfaction with sex that occurred that day predicted higher marital satisfaction the next day; likewise, higher marital satisfaction one day significantly predicted higher global sexual satisfaction the next day and higher satisfaction with sex that occurred the next day. Both associations remained significant after controlling for participant's gender/sex, neuroticism, attachment insecurity, self-esteem, stress, perceived childhood unpredictability and harshness, age of first intercourse, construal level, age, and length of marriage. We also explored whether these covariates moderated either direction of the association. Daily stress was the most reliable moderator, with three of the four interactions tested remaining significant after Bonferroni corrections. The bidirectional association between global sexual and marital satisfaction and the positive association between satisfaction with sex that occurred that day and marital satisfaction the next day were significantly stronger when individuals experienced high versus low stress. Although the exploratory nature of all moderation analyses suggests they should be replicated before drawing strong conclusions, these findings highlight the importance of sexual satisfaction to marital satisfaction and vice versa and point to the power of stress in strengthening these associations.

Norwegian Data on Prevalence, Sexual Risk Behaviors, Sexual Problems, and Sexual Satisfaction in Women Who Have Sex Exclusively with Women, Women Who Have Sex Exclusively with Men, and Women Who Have Sex with Men and Women

Objective

The study explores the difference between Women Who Have Sex Exclusively with Men (WSEM), Women Who Have Sex Exclusively with Women (WSEW), and Women Who Have Sex with Women and Men (WSWM).

Method

The data were obtained from a survey of a probability-based web sample of 1967 Norwegian women.

Results

Most WSWM identified themselves as heterosexuals (76.3%), and three out of 10 used a condom when having sex with a new partner. The highest number of sex partners during the last year was reported by WSWM. More WSEW than the other categories reported premature orgasm.

Conclusions

WSWM should be targeted in health campaigns.

An Empirical Investigation of the Roles of Biological, Relational, Cognitive, and Emotional Factors in Explaining Sex Differences in Dyadic Sexual Desire

One challenge many marital couples face is that they experience discrepant levels of sexual desire for one another. Such discrepancies are particularly likely to arise in mixed-sex relationships because, at least in long-term relationships, men tend to have higher levels of sexual desire for their partner than do women. But what underlies this sex difference? We used a dyadic study of 100 mixed-sex community-based newlywed spouses to investigate the role of biological, relational, cognitive, and emotional factors in explaining sex differences in dyadic sexual desire for a long-term partner. Consistent with predictions, wives on average reported lower daily sexual desire for their spouse than did husbands. Moreover, individual differences in men's and women's levels of circulating testosterone explained this sex difference whereas relational (marital satisfaction, commitment), cognitive (sex-role identification, stress, self-esteem), and emotional (mood, depressive symptoms) factors did not. These findings advance our knowledge of factors that influence dyadic sexual desire and may have practical implications for treating relationship distress in mixed-sex marriages.