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Pietras L, Wiessner C, Briken P, Štulhofer A. Closeness Discrepancies and Relationship Quality in German Partnered Women and Men. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2024; 50:757-772. [PMID: 38881400 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2024.2360980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The construct of inclusion of other in the self has been established as one of the most influential measures for relationship closeness in romantic relationships. It is regularly associated with relational well-being, sexual satisfaction, as well as mental health. However, the degree of closeness one desires in the present relationship is person-specific and can differ from the closeness one actually experiences. Exploring these discrepancies, the present study focused on the association between not enough closeness and too much closeness and relationship characteristics, parenting, and extradyadic sexual activity. Data from a population-based sample of 3,161 men and women from the German Health and Sexuality Survey were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Our results confirm closeness discrepancies as prevalent relationship phenomena, while identifying feelings of not enough closeness as much more problematic for the relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pietras
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Wiessner
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Aleksandar Štulhofer
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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2
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Pusch S, Neyer FJ, Hagemeyer B. Closeness Discrepancies in Couple Relationships: A Dyadic Response Surface Analysis. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2023; 49:1709-1722. [PMID: 35950716 DOI: 10.1177/01461672221113981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Individuals can differ in the degree of closeness they desire in their romantic relationships: Some people may perceive their current level of closeness as just right, whereas others may feel not close enough or too close to their partners (referred to as negative and positive closeness discrepancy, respectively). This study (N = 1,177 individuals from 748 couples) examined the implications of closeness discrepancies for subjective relationship quality (SRQ) using dyadic response surface analysis. The analyses found evidence for linear, but not broad, closeness discrepancy effects: SRQ was lower for individuals reporting more negative closeness discrepancies and, independent of this actor effect, for individuals with partners who reported more negative closeness discrepancies. These results suggest that low levels of closeness paired with a strong desire for closeness can impair both partners' relational well-being.
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Lorimer K, Greco G, Lorgelly P. A new sexual wellbeing paradigm grounded in capability approach concepts of human flourishing and social justice. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2023; 25:1402-1417. [PMID: 36565149 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2158236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the last twenty years, there has been a growing interest in measuring sexual wellbeing, including by a WHO/UNFPA working group in 2007, which sought clarity on key dimensions and asked for indicators of these to be devised. However, there remains a lack of conceptual clarity surrounding the concept of sexual wellbeing, which may create variation in what is being assessed and to what we are referring. This paper proposes one way in which to achieve conceptual clarity might be through the utilisation of a Capability Approach, thereby posing a new set of normative questions about what sexual wellbeing is. The central argument in this paper is for researchers, theorists and practitioners to focus more fully on a person's freedom to achieve sexual wellbeing within a particular social and cultural context. We suggest the kinds of data that might need to be captured to operationalise and measure such an understanding. By offering new critical insights, we hope to drive forward empirical and methodological development in the evaluation of sexual wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Lorimer
- School of Health & Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Giulia Greco
- Department for Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Paula Lorgelly
- Department of Economics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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4
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Fischer N. Singles Not Sexually Satisfied? Prevalence and Predictors of Sexual Satisfaction in Single versus Partnered Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:515-528. [PMID: 38596451 PMCID: PMC10903649 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2241849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nantje Fischer
- Department of Psychology, National Research Centre on Sexual Health and Wellbeing (NaRSex), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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5
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Löfgren A, Stenzelius K, Liedberg F, Wangel AM. Women's experience of sexuality after radical cystectomy - a qualitative study. Scand J Urol 2023; 57:24-28. [PMID: 36573729 DOI: 10.1080/21681805.2022.2157872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to explore how women experienced sexuality after radical cystectomy due to bladder cancer. METHODS We performed an interview study with qualitative design with content analysis. Inclusion criteria were age below 75 years. In total 10 women, with a median age of 64 years at surgery, were interviewed at median 24 months post radical cystectomy. RESULTS The 10 women described sexual life as affected after surgery but they all tried to find ways to overcome the new situation together with their partner. The overall theme was 'A balance between emotional and physical closeness' emerged from 30 codes that were condensed into five subcategories and two categories: 'A sensual relationship' and 'A sexual relationship'. The first category constituted the subcategories 'Feeling of intimacy' and 'The importance of the relationship'. The category 'A sexual relationship' was revealed from the subcategories 'Reluctance to engage in sexual activity' and 'Partner inability to engage in sexual activity', and 'Acting for sexual rehabilitation'. CONCLUSIONS The uncertainty that the women felt about their anatomical changes after radical cystectomy created a sexual anxiety and reluctance to resume intercourse. Even though the surgery had a major impact on their sexual life, the women tried to be sexually active. However, the meaning of sexual life was not just having sexual activity but also included closeness, affirmation, affection, and feeling attractive. Sexual counseling at an appropriate timepoint is essential to assure a balance between emotional and physical closeness, i.e. to regain sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annica Löfgren
- Department of Urology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Karin Stenzelius
- Department of Urology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.,Department of Care Science, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Liedberg
- Department of Urology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.,Institution of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Anne-Marie Wangel
- Department of Care Science, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
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6
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Boccia ML. Social relationships and relational pain in brain tumor patients and their partners. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:979758. [PMID: 36277126 PMCID: PMC9581146 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.979758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Partners play an important role in both the general well-being and the care needs of patients. The dynamic between brain tumor treatment and patients' families is a complex bidirectional relationship. Cancer diagnosis and treatments which leave patients compromised impact the nature and quality of their relationships, and these in turn impact the ability of their partners to care for them. This paper will review the nature of the impact of diagnosis and treatment on relationships and how couples and families respond to the disruption of cancer treatments. The impact of how emotional and social pain effect their relationships and their ability to engage in care will be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L. Boccia
- Department of Human Sciences and Design, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
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7
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Pietras L, Wiessner C, Briken P. How Inclusion of Other in the Self Relates to Couple's Sexuality and Functioning - Results from the German Health and Sexuality Survey (GeSiD). JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:493-503. [PMID: 34877905 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1998307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Closeness, in the sense of inclusion of other in the self, has been found to be an important factor for relationship well-being, satisfaction and pair-bonding. In the past ten years, the self-expansion theory has also been incorporated into sex research, although studies are still very scarce and not without limitations. The present research aimed at further elucidating the relevance of relational factors for couple's sexuality, and to clarify the role inclusion of other in the self plays for sexual satisfaction and sexual distress. A broadly representative sample of 3,046 men and women aged 18 to 75 was taken from the German Health and Sexuality Survey (GeSiD). Throughout analyses, inclusion of other in the self and love were positively related to sexual satisfaction. Furthermore, inclusion of other in the self was negatively related to how strongly someone was distressed by experiencing sexual problems. Closeness seems to have a compensatory role especially for women with sexual problems, protecting them from experiencing sexual distress. In future research, couple's sexual satisfaction should not be compartmentalized from relational aspects. Results clearly promote the Inclusion of Other in the Self Scale as an interesting tool for both research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pietras
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Christian Wiessner
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
- Institute for Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
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8
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Sundgren M, Damiris I, Stallman H, Kannis-Dymand L, Millear P, Mason J, Wood A, Allen A. Investigating psychometric measures of sexual wellbeing: a systematic review. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2022.2033967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Madison Sundgren
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Isabella Damiris
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Helen Stallman
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Lee Kannis-Dymand
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Prudence Millear
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Jonathan Mason
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
- Sunshine Coast Mind & Neuroscience – Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Andrew Wood
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
- Sunshine Coast Mind & Neuroscience – Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Andrew Allen
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
- Sunshine Coast Mind & Neuroscience – Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
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9
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Skałacka K, Filipkowski J, Pajestka G. Multidimensional Sexual Well-being Scale for Older Adults: Validity Evidence from a Polish Sample. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 48:295-308. [PMID: 34672870 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2021.1991535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Here, we report the results of a Polish adaptation of the Multidimensional Sexual Well-being Scale (MSWBS) for older adults. The MSWBS is a short self-report scale for assessing the five dimensions of an individual's sexual well-being: frequency of caressing, sexual intimacy, sexual compliance, sexual satisfaction, and sexual distress. The aim of our adaptation was to examine the utility of the scale in a country with conservative views on the sexuality of older people, which will help health care providers and researchers to better understand the sexual needs of older people. The study included 507 participants, aged 60-92. We found the reliability of the scale to be satisfactory (Cronbach's alpha = .71-.87). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed a good fit of the data to a five-factor model. This study demonstrates that the MSWBS-PL is connected to general life satisfaction and diversity of sexual activity, confirming the scale's validity.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/0092623X.2021.1991535.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Skałacka
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Social Science, Opole University, Opole, Poland
| | - Jakub Filipkowski
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Social Science, Opole University, Opole, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Pajestka
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Social Science, Opole University, Opole, Poland
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10
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Rausch D, Rettenberger M. Predictors of Sexual Satisfaction in Women: A Systematic Review. Sex Med Rev 2021; 9:365-380. [PMID: 34099432 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The increasing research interest in sexual satisfaction corresponds to a large amount of studies which focus on different singular determinants without establishing a common model for its explanation. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this review is to systematically identify and evaluate the structure and results of the current research about sexual satisfaction in heterosexual women in a long-term relationship. METHODS A systematic literature search using Web of Knowledge, ProQuest and PSYNDEX was conducted from January 2004 to October 2019. In total, 1,649 studies published in the last 15 years were extracted from the databases with a systematic keyword search. Through a multistage evaluation process 204 studies met the inclusion criteria and described findings about sexual satisfaction as dependent variable. RESULTS Research interest in sexual satisfaction increased notably in the last 5 years. Empirical analyses were predominantly based on data from North America whereas a considerably smaller share of research analyzed samples from Europe or Asia. Relationship variables were the most frequently analyzed predictors and included in more than half of the identified studies. Sexual behavior was most often analyzed in the form of frequency of sexual interactions. Contrariwise, sexual practices, communication about sexuality and sexual desire, and sexual thoughts received limited attention. Demographics were considered in one third of all studies. The inclusion of control variables was rare. Some important studies considered variables closely related to sexual satisfaction such as sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSION Relationship satisfaction and the frequency of sexual interactions are identified as the most frequently confirmed predictors of sexual satisfaction across all evaluated studies. Results about the effects of pornography consumption, religion, and relationship duration showed the greatest inconsistency. In general, identified effects were often believed to result from mediator variables like sexual desire or distracting thoughts. Rausch D, Rettenberger M. Predictors of Sexual Satisfaction in Women: A Systematic Review. Sex Med Rev 2021;9:365-380.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Rausch
- Department of Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz (JGU), Mainz, Germany.
| | - Martin Rettenberger
- Department of Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz (JGU), Mainz, Germany; Centre for Criminology (Kriminologische Zentralstelle - KrimZ), Wiesbaden, Germany.
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11
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Pietras L, Briken P. Inclusion of Other in the Self and Couple's Sexuality: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 47:285-304. [PMID: 33393456 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2020.1865494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
To better understand the effect relationship closeness has on couple's sexuality a scoping review was conducted, that focused on the inclusion of other in the self scale (IOS). Authors reviewed quantitative journal articles published between 2000 and 2020 by searching PsychInfo, Medline, and PubMed, resulting in 24 studies. Results suggest positive associations between IOS and sexual well-being, functioning, desire, frequency and satisfaction, and negatively related to sexual distress. Also, the benefits of positive sexual experiences expand well beyond the sexual domain onto different personal and relational factors of health and well-being. Sampling designs considerably limit the generalizability of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pietras
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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12
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Štulhofer A, Jurin T, Graham C, Janssen E, Træen B. Emotional intimacy and sexual well-being in aging European couples: a cross-cultural mediation analysis. Eur J Ageing 2020. [PMID: 32158371 DOI: 10.1007/s10902-018-0049-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual health research tends to focus on problematic aspects of sexuality. This also applies to research on sexuality in older men and women, where attention has been primarily on the negative impact of aging. To contribute to the emerging interest in positive (successful) sexual aging, we aimed to: (1) further validate a recently developed 5-dimensional measure of sexual well-being (Štulhofer et al. in J Happiness Stud, 2018. 10.1007/s10902-018-0049-1) and (2) explore the structure of associations among emotional intimacy, frequency of sexual intercourse, and sexual well-being in older European couples. Using data from a 2016 community-based survey of 218 Norwegian, 207 Danish, 135 Belgian, and 117 Portuguese couples aged 60-75 years, we applied actor-partner interdependence structural modeling approach to confirm the validity of the sexual well-being measure in couples and explore a path analytic model in which the frequency of sexual intercourse was hypothesized to mediate the association between emotional intimacy and sexual well-being. Although we observed consistent and significant actor effects, with emotional intimacy and frequency of sexual intercourse predicting both male and female partners' sexual well-being across countries, the proposed mediation was observed only in Norwegian and Portuguese men and Norwegian and Belgian women. Partner effects were gender-specific; male partner's emotional intimacy was related to his female partner's reported frequency of sex and sexual well-being but not the other way around. Apart from being one of the few cross-cultural assessments of successful sexual aging, this study's findings support the use of a new sexual well-being measure in research on older adults' sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Štulhofer
- 1Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, I. Lučića 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tanja Jurin
- 2Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Cynthia Graham
- 3Department of Psychology, Centre for Sexual Health Research, University of Southampton, Southampton, England UK
| | - Erick Janssen
- 4Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, University of Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Bente Træen
- 5Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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13
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“I Just Go with It”: Negotiating Sexual Desire Discrepancies for Women in Partnered Relationships. SEX ROLES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11199-019-01098-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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14
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Leonhardt ND, Spencer TJ, Butler MH, Theobald AC. An Organizational Framework for Sexual Media's Influence on Short-Term Versus Long-Term Sexual Quality. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:2233-2249. [PMID: 30014336 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1209-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Although research has suggested a net negative influence of sexual media on sexual quality, enough researchers have found results suggesting that sexual media has no effect or a positive influence that the matter warrants further investigation. We present an organizational framework utilizing primarily the acquisition, activation, application model (3AM), and the Antecedents-Context-Effects model (ACE) to reconcile these apparently contradictory claims. By synthesizing these theories, we suggest that to truly understand the impact of sexual media on sexual quality, four factors must be taken into account: (1) the content of the sexual media being viewed, (2) the difference between short-term and long-term sexual quality, (3) the influence of exclusivity, formativeness, resonance, and reinforcement in moderating the extent to which the portrayed sexual script is applied (influences attitudes and behavior), and (4) the couple context for congruency of use, script application, and moral paradigms. While acknowledging the many nuances that should be considered, we ultimately argue that when considering these factors simultaneously, the overall scripts presented in sexual media are congruent with pursuing factors for short-term sexual quality and incongruent with pursuing factors for long-term sexual quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan D Leonhardt
- School of Family Life, Brigham Young University, 2081 JFSB, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
| | - Travis J Spencer
- Marriage and Family Therapy, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Mark H Butler
- School of Family Life, Brigham Young University, 2081 JFSB, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Alex C Theobald
- Marriage and Family Therapy, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
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15
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Lorimer K, DeAmicis L, Dalrymple J, Frankis J, Jackson L, Lorgelly P, McMillan L, Ross J. A Rapid Review of Sexual Wellbeing Definitions and Measures: Should We Now Include Sexual Wellbeing Freedom? JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:843-853. [PMID: 31335208 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2019.1635565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies refer to sexual wellbeing and/or seek to measure it, and the term appears across various policy documents, including sexual health frameworks in the UK. We conducted a rapid review to determine how sexual wellbeing has been defined, qualitatively explored and quantitatively measured. Eligible studies selected for inclusion from OVID Medline, PsychInfo, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL were: in English language, published after 2007, were peer-reviewed full articles, focused on sexual wellbeing (or proxies for, e.g. satisfaction, function), and quantitatively or qualitatively assessed sexual wellbeing. We included studies with participants aged 16-65. Given study heterogeneity, our synthesis and findings are reported using a narrative approach. We identified 162 papers, of which 10 offered a definition of sexual wellbeing. Drawing upon a socio-ecological model, we categorised the 59 dimensions we identified from studies under three main domains: cognitive-affect (31 dimensions); inter-personal (22 dimensions); and socio-cultural (6 dimensions). Only 11 papers were categorised under the socio-cultural domain, commonly focusing on gender inequalities or stigma. We discuss the importance of conceptualising sexual wellbeing as individually experienced but socially and structurally influenced, including assessing sexual wellbeing freedom: a person's freedom to achieve sexual wellbeing, or their real opportunities and liberties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Lorimer
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | - Leyla DeAmicis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | - Jenny Dalrymple
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | - Jamie Frankis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | | | | | - Lesley McMillan
- Glasgow School for Business and Society, Glasgow Caledonian University
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16
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Gamarel KE, Golub SA. Closeness Discrepancies and Intimacy Interference: Motivations for HIV Prevention Behavior in Primary Romantic Relationships. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2019; 45:270-283. [PMID: 29984632 PMCID: PMC6377335 DOI: 10.1177/0146167218783196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Relational closeness has been positively associated with relationship quality and mental health; however, desire for closeness and intimacy in a relationship may also motivate sexual risk-taking, that is, forgoing condom use. This study examined the impact of desiring more closeness with a primary partner (i.e., motivation for reducing closeness discrepancies) on HIV prevention behavior. Using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as a case study, we examined the extent to which closeness discrepancies motivate behavioral intentions (Study 1) and actual behavior (Study 2). In both studies, desiring more closeness and believing that condoms interfere with intimacy were independently positively associated with PrEP adoption. Understanding the relational needs for closeness and intimacy in motivating prevention behavior is critical for social psychology, relationship science, and public health efforts to improve sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi E. Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Center for Sexuality & Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sarit A. Golub
- Hunter College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY USA
- Hunter HIV/AIDS Research Team, New York, NY USA
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17
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Weiser D, Hilliard T, Knox D. "I thought you loved me too?": Outcomes of discrepant involvement in romantic relationships. INTERPERSONA: AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL ON PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2018. [DOI: 10.5964/ijpr.v12i2.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As romantic relationships begin and evolve, it is sometimes the case that partners are discrepant in their attraction to, love for, and commitment to each other. Data were collected from 460 undergraduates who completed a 40 item Internet survey on the various types of discrepancies and outcomes for their respective relationships. Results revealed that half of participants had been in a discrepant relationship in which they were more attracted to, in love with, and committed to their partner and half were less attracted, in love and committed than a partner in a current or past relationship. Men were significantly more likely than women to report that they had been in a discrepant relationship in which they were more in love with their partner. Being more attracted and less attracted, in love with, and committed was positively associated with infidelity. Depression was positively associated with being more or less attracted to, in love with and committed. Alcohol/drug use was positively associated with being more attracted and in love with a partner, as well as being less attracted and committed to a partner. Of discrepant relationships that ended, 45% were by the respondent, 20% mutually, and 11% by the partner. Of discrepant relationships that continued, 44% of the respondents reported that the discrepancies did not matter and that the respondents were happy despite the discrepancies.
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