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Chen YL, Huang KJ, Scoglio AAJ, Borgogna NC, Potenza MN, Blycker GR, Kraus SW. A Network Comparison of Sexual Dysfunction, Psychological Factors, and Body Dissociation between Individuals with and without Sexual Trauma Histories. J Trauma Dissociation 2024; 25:62-82. [PMID: 37415426 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2023.2231915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction is associated with psychological symptoms, including depression and anxiety. Sexual dysfunctions are often attributed to dissociation symptoms in individuals who reported sexual trauma histories. This study utilized a network approach to analyze relationships between sexual and psychological symptoms and examine whether the identified network structures differed between individuals who reported a history of sexual trauma and those who did not. Sexual dysfunction, history of sexual trauma, internalizing symptoms, dissociation symptoms, sex-related shame, and negative body image were assessed in 1,937 United States college students (women = 69.5%). Nearly half (46.8%) of the participants reported a sexual trauma history in their lifetime. Using regularized partial correlation networks, the relationships between sexual and psychological symptoms were analyzed and compared between groups with and without trauma histories. Internalizing symptoms were positively correlated with sexual dysfunction regardless of the presence of sexual trauma history. Anxiety had a stronger influence in the trauma network than in the no-trauma network. Feeling separated from the body during sexual activity was a central symptom and was related to difficulties relaxing and enjoying sex only in the trauma network. Sex-related shame appeared to play a more important role in men compared to women. To improve clinical practice of assessing and treating sexual dysfunction, researchers and clinicians should consider core symptoms that connect different aspects of sexual and psychological functioning while being aware of the unique role of dissociation in the context of traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Ling Chen
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Kuan-Ju Huang
- Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Arielle A J Scoglio
- Epidemiology Department, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, Bentley University, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nicholas C Borgogna
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Gretchen R Blycker
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Shane W Kraus
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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Borgmann M, Brandner LM, D'Urso D, Gonin-Spahni S, Znoj HJ, Werner MA. A Psychometric Study of a Trait and State Assessment of Sexual Pleasure - The Amsterdam Sexual Pleasure Inventory. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023:1-27. [PMID: 37971277 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2261439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
We studied the Amsterdam Sexual Pleasure Inventory's (1.0) psychometric properties. The ASPI, a revised self-report battery designed to measure domains of state and trait sexual pleasure in diverse gender, sex, and relationship populations, is based on a recently proposed conceptual framework of sexual pleasure. We collected quantitative (n = 1371) and qualitative data (n = 637) using a cross-sectional multi-method design targeting the general (German-speaking) population. After pre-processing, we conducted analyses on a sample of n = 706 participants. The theory-based 5-factor exploratory structural equation model and the principal component analyses of the two general exploratory index-scales showed good and acceptable structural validity evidence respectively. Measurement invariance was confirmed separately for male and female participants and for those with sexually functional-scoring and dysfunctional-scoring levels. Coefficient omega indicated that all scales, except those of one facet, showed acceptable to very good internal consistency. The ASPI's convergent and discriminant associations with sexological and psychological constructs demonstrated good overall construct validity. Participants understood the items as intended and felt that the ASPI covered relevant facets of sexual pleasure. The ASPI might help understand how individuals differ in experiencing sexual pleasure and how different contexts enable some people to experience pleasure while disadvantaging others.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Borgmann
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, University of Bern
| | - L M Brandner
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, University of Bern
| | - D D'Urso
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University
| | - S Gonin-Spahni
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, University of Bern
| | - H J Znoj
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, University of Bern
| | - M A Werner
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam
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Peixoto MM, Lopes J. Sexual functioning beliefs, sexual satisfaction, and sexual functioning in women: a cross-sectional mediation analysis. J Sex Med 2023; 20:170-176. [PMID: 36763917 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual dysfunctional beliefs are known to be negative predictors of women's sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction, but little is known about the role that beliefs about sexual functioning play in women's sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction. AIM The purpose of the present study was to examine the mediating role of sexual functioning in the relationship between women's beliefs about sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction. METHODS A sample of 301 women was invited to participate in a web survey about female sexuality in May 2020. OUTCOMES Participants completed the sociodemographic questionnaire, the Beliefs About Sexual Functioning Scale, the Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women, and the Female Sexual Functioning Index. RESULTS Sexual functioning was a significant mediator in the relationship between beliefs about sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in women. When the dimensions of sexual functioning were considered as mediators, only sexual desire and absence of sexual pain were significant mediators in the relationship between beliefs about sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in women. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Negative beliefs about sexual functioning in women are associated with poor sexual functioning and lack of sexual satisfaction. Therefore, beliefs about sexual functioning should be assessed during the intervention for women's sexual difficulties and to increase sexual pleasure and satisfaction. In addition, special attention should be paid to women with problems with sexual desire and sexual pain when beliefs about sexual functioning are being assessed. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study is one of the first attempts to explore the role of beliefs about sexual functioning in women's sexual satisfaction and to examine the mediating role of sexual functioning. Limitations include the small sample size, the lack of a clinical sample, and the nonlongitudinal methodological approach. CONCLUSION Beliefs about sexual functioning are a negative predictor of sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in women. In addition, women with sexual pain and lack of sexual desire are more likely to have lower sexual satisfaction if they have more negative beliefs about sexual functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Júlia Lopes
- Instituto de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação, Universidade Lusíada-Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Eissa MF, Missiry MA, Kamel KFW, Mahmoud DAM. Sexual dysfunction and quality of life in female patients with major depression disorder. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43045-022-00206-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Major depression can negatively affect different domains in patients’ psychosexual life. Many females with depression have sexual dysfunction which goes under diagnosed leading to reduced sexual and overall health quality of life. The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk of sexual dysfunction, sexual quality of life, and general health quality of life in a sample of Egyptian females diagnosed with major depression compared to a control group.
Results
The sample consisted of 100 participants recruited by convenience sampling, divided into a case group (50 female patients diagnosed with major depression enrolled from our institute’s outpatient clinic) and a control group (50 apparently healthy matched females enrolled from employees working in the university hospitals). Patients answered The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders, the Female Sexual Function Index, the Sexual Quality Of Life-Female, and the WHO Quality of Life. Descriptive data analysis showed that all patients with major depression had a higher risk of sexual dysfunction compared to 36% in the control group, with higher rates of marital conflicts, unemployment, positive psychiatric family history and lower monthly income than those in controls. Correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between the sexual quality of life in the case group and the psychosexual feelings (emotional intimacy), self-worthlessness and the total score domains of the FSFI, and a positive correlation with psychosexual feelings, sexual relationship satisfaction, and self-worthlessness domains in the control group. Female sexual functioning scores were positively correlated with most of the WHO quality of life domains in the case group.
Conclusions
Female patients with major depression are distinctly prone to sexual dysfunction and marital problems that can lead to both defective sexual and overall health quality of life. This mandates thorough screening of the psychosocial risks of sexual dysfunction in patients with depression for early management and more satisfactory quality of life.
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Vesali S, Zameni N, Moghinasr R, Sazvar S, Agamaleki ZN, Hafezi M. Sexual Quality of life, Depression, and Anxiety Symptoms in Women Candidates for Social Egg Freezing. SEXUALITY AND DISABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11195-022-09761-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Peixoto MM. Female sexual desire and trait-affect: the mediator role of depressed mood. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1998421] [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: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Peixoto
- Centro de Investigação em Psicologia para o Desenvolvimento Positivo, Instituto de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação, Universidades Lusíada - Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Stout ME, Hawkins MAW. Temporal Relationships Between Pain During Intercourse (PDI), Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among Women. Sex Med 2021; 9:100444. [PMID: 34649130 PMCID: PMC8766269 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Painful sex can lead to increased psychological distress, including major depressive disorder, and the experience of loneliness may explain this association. Aims We aimed to investigate loneliness as a mediator between painful sex and depressive symptoms and hypothesized that women who experienced greater pain during intercourse (ie, more severe and more frequent pain) would endorse higher rates of loneliness and, in turn, higher rates of depressive symptoms at a 6-month follow-up. Methods Participants were 148 adults who were assigned female at birth (78.4% white, 77% partnered, 31.14 ± 10.9 years old) and completed an online, anonymous survey including the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), UCLA Loneliness Scale-3 (ULS), and demographic information. Main Outcome Measure Depressive symptoms, measured via the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ8) at baseline (T1) and 6-month follow-up (T2) were used as the outcomes of the present study. Results Painful sex and ULS at T1 were significantly correlated with each other and with PHQ8 at T1 (r = 0.590). However, change in PHQ8 from T1 to T2 was not significantly correlated with ULS (r = 0.024) or any other key study variables, indicating that that ULS was not a significant mediator of the relationship between painful sex at T1 and change in PHQ8 (standardized indirect effect = 0.011; 99% CI = −0.114 to 0.188). Conclusion These findings are consistent with previous studies highlighting that painful sex is related to depressive symptoms through loneliness cross-sectionally, suggesting that future treatments for depressive symptoms among women who experience painful sex might target loneliness. Stout ME, Hawkins MAW. Temporal Relationships Between Pain During Intercourse (PDI), Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among Women. Sex Med 2021;9:100444.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison E Stout
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Misty A W Hawkins
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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Carvalho J, Campos P, Carrito M, Moura C, Quinta-Gomes A, Tavares I, Nobre P. The Relationship Between COVID-19 Confinement, Psychological Adjustment, and Sexual Functioning, in a Sample of Portuguese Men and Women. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1191-1197. [PMID: 34116985 PMCID: PMC10016834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Past research has revealed the detrimental effects of social isolation and physical distancing measures in health related outcomes. However, only recently COVID-19 confinement measures provided a context to test whether such detrimental effects exist in the human sexuality domain. AIM This study was aimed at testing the relationship between COVID-19 confinement levels and sexual functioning domains in men and women, while accounting for the mediating role of psychological adjustment during lockdown. METHODS Two hundred and forty five men and 417 women completed a web survey on the effects of COVID-19 in sexual health. The reference period includes the first confinement in Portugal (March 19-June 1, 2020). Data were handled under Hays' procedures for simple mediation analysis. OUTCOMES Measurement outcomes included self-reported levels of confinement, IIEF and FSFI scores, and psychological adjustment during lockdown. RESULTS Psychological adjustment during lockdown mediated the relationship between confinement levels and most sexual functioning domains in men but not in women. Also, while confinement levels were not directly related with most sexual functioning domains, psychological adjustment during lockdown did predict lower sexual functioning in both genders. CLINICAL TRANSLATION Findings support that human sexual functioning should be framed within a contextual perspective, emphasizing how psychological adjustment and situational life stressors, such as lockdown situations, shape individuals' sexuality. Such perspective should be considered in treatment protocols implemented during current pandemic. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Data add to the literature on the effects of lockdown in the sexuality domain. However, the study precludes inference of causality and targets only a little proportion of all the dynamics involved in sexuality during the current historical moment. CONCLUSION Psychological adjustment during COVID-19 seems to have a role on human sexual functioning, over the single effects of confinement. Carvalho J, Campos P, Carrito M, et al. The Relationship Between COVID-19 Confinement, Psychological Adjustment, and Sexual Functioning, in a Sample of Portuguese Men and Women. J Sex Med 2021;18:1191-1197.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Carvalho
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Priscila Campos
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Carrito
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Moura
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Quinta-Gomes
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Tavares
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Nobre
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
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Dubé JP, Dawson SJ, Rosen NO. Emotion Regulation and Sexual Well-being Among Women: Current Status and Future Directions. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-020-00261-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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10
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Rowland DL, van Lankveld JJDM. Anxiety and Performance in Sex, Sport, and Stage: Identifying Common Ground. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1615. [PMID: 31379665 PMCID: PMC6646850 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety has long been associated with diminished performance within a number of domains involving evaluative interpersonal interactions, including Sex, Sport, and Stage. Here, we pose three questions: (1) how do these disparate fields approach and understand anxiety and performance; (2) how does the understanding of the issue within one field offer insight to another field; and (3) how could each field benefit from the ideas and strategies used by the others. We begin with a short review of models of anxiety/arousal and performance and then explore definitions, models, presumed underlying physiological processes, and characterizing and influencing factors within each domain separately in a narrative review. This discussion is followed by a synthesis that identifies elements specific to and common across the various domains, with the latter captured in a model of essential characteristics. Concluding remarks note the potential value of promoting increased cross-disciplinary conversation and research, with each domain likely benefiting from the conceptualizations and expert knowledge of the others.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L. Rowland
- Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN, United States
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11
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Carvalho J, Pereira R, Barreto D, Nobre PJ. The Effects of Positive Versus Negative Mood States on Attentional Processes During Exposure to Erotica. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:2495-2504. [PMID: 27734171 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0875-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between emotions and sexual functioning has been documented since early sex research. Among other effects, emotions are expected to impact sexual response by shaping individuals' attention to sexual cues; yet, this assumption has not been tested. This study aimed to investigate whether attentional processes to sexual cues are impacted by state emotions, and whether the processes impacted by emotions relate to subjective sexual arousal to a sex film clip. A total of 52 men and 73 women were randomly assigned to one of three experimental conditions: (1) a negative mood induction condition (sadness as dominant emotion), (2) a positive mood induction condition (amusement as dominant emotion), and a (3) neutral/control condition. After mood induction, participants were exposed to a sex film clip while their focus of visual attention was measured using an eye tracker. Three areas of interest (AOI) were considered within the sex clip: background (non-sexual cues), body interaction, and genital interaction. Self-reported attention, thoughts during the sex clip, percent dwell time, and pupil size to AOI were considered as attentional markers. Findings revealed that the attentional processes were not impacted by the mood conditions. Instead, gender effects were found. While men increased their visual attention to the background area of the film clip, women increased attention to the genital area. Also, sexual arousal thoughts during exposure to the sex clip were consistently related to subjective sexual arousal regardless of the momentary emotional state. Findings add to the literature by showing that men and women process the sexual components of a stimulus differently and by challenging the assumption that emotions shape attention to sexual cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Carvalho
- School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Oporto, Portugal.
| | - Raquel Pereira
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Oporto, Portugal
| | - Diana Barreto
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Oporto, Portugal
| | - Pedro J Nobre
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Oporto, Portugal
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Forbes MK, Baillie AJ, Eaton NR, Krueger RF. A Place for Sexual Dysfunctions in an Empirical Taxonomy of Psychopathology. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2017; 54:465-485. [PMID: 28121167 PMCID: PMC5433908 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2016.1269306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunctions commonly co-occur with various depressive and anxiety disorders. An emerging framework for understanding the classification of mental disorders suggests that such comorbidity is a manifestation of underlying dimensions of psychopathology (or "spectra"). In this review, we synthesize the evidence that sexual dysfunctions should be included in the empirical taxonomy of psychopathology as part of the internalizing spectrum, which accounts for comorbidity among the depressive and anxiety disorders. The review has four parts. Part 1 summarizes the empirical basis and utility of the empirical taxonomy of psychopathology. Part 2 reviews the prima facie evidence for the hypothesis that sexual dysfunctions are part of the internalizing spectrum (i.e., high rates of comorbidity; shared cognitive, affective, and temperament characteristics; common neural substrates and biomarkers; shared course and treatment response; and the lack of causal relationships between them). Part 3 critically analyzes and integrates the results of the eight studies that have addressed this hypothesis. Finally, Part 4 examines the implications of reconceptualizing sexual dysfunctions as part of the internalizing spectrum, and explores avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam K Forbes
- a Departments of Psychiatry and Psychology , University of Minnesota
| | - Andrew J Baillie
- b Centre for Emotional Health and Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use , Macquarie University
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Velten J. The Dual Control Model of Sexual Response: Relevance of Sexual Excitation and Sexual Inhibition for Sexual Function. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-017-0108-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Velten J, Scholten S, Graham CA, Margraf J. Sexual Excitation and Sexual Inhibition as Predictors of Sexual Function in Women: A Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Study. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2017; 43:95-109. [PMID: 26735804 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2015.1115792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
To date, no longitudinal studies have evaluated the predictive value of the two factors of the dual control model-sexual excitation (SE) and sexual inhibition (SI)-for future sexual function. The aims of the present study were to investigate the associations between SE/SI and sexual function and estimate their predictive value for future sexual function in a sample of women. Overall, 2,214 women participated in a web-based survey that assessed SE, SI, and sexual function as well as symptoms of depression. The one- and two-year follow-up surveys included 396 and 382 participants, respectively. Correlational analyses and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to analyze the relationships between predictor and outcome variables. Four factors of SE (Arousability, Partner Characteristics, Sexual Power Dynamics, and Setting) and two factors of SI (Concerns about Sexual Function and Arousal Contingency), as well as symptoms of depression and partnership status, were significant predictors of concurrent and future sexual function. Several subscales of SE and SI contributed to the prediction of future sexual function above and beyond prior sexual function levels. Our study provides the first supportive evidence for the assumptions of the dual control model that propensities for low SE and high SI influence future sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Velten
- a Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum , Bochum , Germany
| | - Saskia Scholten
- a Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum , Bochum , Germany
| | - Cynthia A Graham
- b Department of Psychology , University of Southampton , Southampton , United Kingdom
| | - Jürgen Margraf
- a Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-Universität Bochum , Bochum , Germany
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Forbes MK, Baillie AJ, Schniering CA. A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis of the Relationships between Depression, Anxiety, and Sexual Problems over Time. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2016; 53:942-954. [PMID: 26488460 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2015.1063576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunctions are related to depressive and anxiety disorders, but the nature of these relationships remains unclear. This study examined the relationship among symptoms of these disorders over time by comparing (a) a model that included causal relationships, (b) a model that accounted for change over time with a shared underlying factor (or latent liability) among all the disorders, and (c) a model that conceptualized sexual dysfunctions as unrelated to depressive and anxiety disorders over time. Participants (n = 1,012) completed online self-report measures of sexual dysfunctions and depressive and anxiety disorders across six time points at either weekly or monthly intervals. Models 1 and 2 provided equal best fit for men and women based on data collected four weeks apart, but there were no evident causal relationships in Model 1. Subsequent analyses using data collected one week and six months apart found Model 2 provided robust fit for women, but these data were not examined for men due to inadequate sample sizes. The results are consistent with a shared latent liability of internalizing psychopathology driving the change in these disorders over time, which provides a clear direction for an empirically driven nosology and for future research into transdiagnostic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam K Forbes
- a Centre for Emotional Health and NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University
| | - Andrew J Baillie
- a Centre for Emotional Health and NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University
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Brotto L, Atallah S, Johnson-Agbakwu C, Rosenbaum T, Abdo C, Byers ES, Graham C, Nobre P, Wylie K. Psychological and Interpersonal Dimensions of Sexual Function and Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2016; 13:538-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2015] [Revised: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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17
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Kalmbach DA, Pillai V, Kingsberg SA, Ciesla JA. The Transaction Between Depression and Anxiety Symptoms and Sexual Functioning: A Prospective Study of Premenopausal, Healthy Women. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2015; 44:1635-1649. [PMID: 25403320 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-014-0381-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A number of studies have called attention to the problematic interplay between depression and anxiety symptoms and sexual difficulties. However, despite the bidirectional conceptualization of the association between affective and sexual problems, few studies have adequately examined temporal precedence or state-level fluctuations between these two constructs. Using Clark and Watson's (1991) tripartite model of anxiety and depression, the current study employed a repeated measures design to examine how weekly changes in affective symptoms were related to weekly changes in sexual functioning in a non-clinical sample of premenopausal women. First, we examined how general distress, anxious arousal, and anhedonia were concurrently related to various indices of sexual functioning. Next, we examined lagged effects of mood and anxiety symptoms predicting later levels of sexual functioning. Finally, we tested sexual functioning's influence on later reports of affective symptoms. Hierarchical linear modeling analyses revealed that, of the three symptom types tested, anhedonic depression was the most consistently related to sexual problems, and that these relations were more proximal than distal. The preponderance of data suggested temporal precedence of mood on sexual symptoms. These findings emphasize the importance of prospective studies in the investigation of mental and sexual health.
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Fábregas BC, Moura AS, Ávila RED, Faria MN, Carmo RA, Teixeira AL. Sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction in chronic hepatitis C patients. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2015; 47:564-72. [PMID: 25467256 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0147-2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD) and dissatisfaction with sexual life (DSL) in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection (CHC) was jointly investigated via a thorough psychopathological analysis, which included dimensions such as fatigue, impulsiveness, psychiatric comorbidity, health-related quality of life (HRQL) and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. METHODS Male and female CHC patients from an outpatient referral center were assessed using the Brief Fatigue Inventory, the Barrat Impulsiveness Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale-Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF). Structured psychiatric interviews were performed according to the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. SD was assessed based on specific items in the BDI (item 21) and the HAM-A (item 12). DSL was assessed based on a specific question in the WHOQOL-BREF (item 21). Multivariate analysis was performed according to an ordinal linear regression model in which SD and DSL were considered as outcome variables. RESULTS SD was reported by 60 (57.1%) of the patients according to the results of the BDI and by 54 (51.4%) of the patients according to the results of the HAM-A. SD was associated with older age, female gender, viral genotype 2 or 3, interferon-α use, impulsiveness, depressive symptoms, antidepressant and benzodiazepine use, and lower HRQL. DSL was reported by 34 (32.4%) of the patients and was associated with depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, antidepressant use, and lower HRQL. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of SD and DSL in CHC patients was high and was associated with factors, such as depressive symptoms and antidepressant use. Screening and managing these conditions represent significant steps toward improving medical assistance and the HRQL of CHC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cópio Fábregas
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Infectologia e Medicina Tropical, Faculdade Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, BRAZIL
| | | | - Renata Eliane de Ávila
- Centro de Treinamento e Referências em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias Orestes Diniz, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Belo Horizonte e Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, BRAZIL
| | - Marjore Novaes Faria
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, BRAZIL
| | - Ricardo Andrade Carmo
- Centro de Treinamento e Referências em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias Orestes Diniz, Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Belo Horizonte e Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, BRAZIL
| | - Antônio Lúcio Teixeira
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, BRAZIL
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Peixoto MM, Nobre P. Personality Traits, Sexual Problems, and Sexual Orientation: An Empirical Study. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2014; 42:199-213. [PMID: 25405957 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2014.985352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Personality traits, namely neuroticism, have been suggested as vulnerability factors for the development and maintenance of sexual dysfunction in heterosexual samples. However, no evidence was found regarding homosexual samples. This study aimed to analyze the differences on personality traits between heterosexual and homosexual men and women with and without sexual problems. Participants were 285 individuals (142 men, 143 women) who completed a web-based survey. Participants answered the NEO Five-Factor Inventory, the Brief Symptomatology Inventory, and questions regarding sexual problems. The groups of men and women with and without sexual problems were matched for sociodemographic variables. A 2 (Group) × 2 (Sexual Orientation) multivariate analysis of covariance was conducted separately for each gender. Results indicated a significant main effect for group and for sexual orientation in male and female samples. Men with sexual problems scored higher on neuroticism, whereas women with sexual problems scored higher on neuroticism and lower on extraversion when compared with healthy controls, regardless of sexual orientation. In addition, gay men scored higher on neuroticism and lesbian women scored higher on conscientiousness compared with the heterosexual groups. The present findings emphasize the central role of neuroticism on sexual problems in both men and women regardless of sexual orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Peixoto
- a Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação da Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Pedro Nobre
- a Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação da Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The specific affective experiences related to changes in various aspects of female sexual function have received little attention as most prior studies have focused instead on the role of clinical mood and anxiety disorders and their influence on sexual dysfunction. AIM We sought to understand the transaction between daily affect and female sexual function in effort to provide a more nuanced understanding of the interplay between affective and sexual experiences. METHODS The present study used a 2-week daily diary approach to examine same-day and temporal relations between positive and negative affect states and sexual function in young women. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We examined the unique relations between positive (i.e., joviality, serenity, self-assurance) and negative (i.e., fear, sadness, hostility) affects and female sexual response (i.e., desire, subjective arousal, vaginal lubrication, orgasmic function, and sexual pain) while controlling for higher order sexual distress, depression, and anxiety, as well as age effects and daily menstruation. RESULTS Analyses revealed different aspects of both positive and negative affects to be independently related to sexual response indices. Specifically, results indicated that joviality was related to same-day sexual desire and predicted increased desire the following day. This latter relation was partially mediated by sexual activity. Further, greater sexual desire predicted next-day calmness, which was partially mediated by sexual activity. Notably, fear was related to same-day subjective arousal, lubrication, orgasmic function, and vaginal pain, whereas poorer orgasmic function predicted greater next-day sadness. CONCLUSIONS These findings describe the manner in which changes in affect correspond to variations in female sexual function, thus highlighting the inextricability of mental and sexual health. Further, these findings may offer insight into the progression of normative levels of affect and sexual function as they develop into comorbid depression, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Kalmbach
- Department of Psychiatry, Sleep and Chronophysiology Laboratory, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Psychology, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
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