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Mernone L, Fiacco S, Ehlert U. Positive body perception and its link to sexual satisfaction in aging women - findings from the Women 40+ Healthy Aging Study. J Women Aging 2023; 35:152-167. [PMID: 34882510 DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2021.2002647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Research on the relation between physical appearance and sexual satisfaction in aging women is scarce. This study uniquely links attractiveness, body perception, and sexual satisfaction in 124 healthy aging women. Two-thirds reported being highly sexually satisfied. BMI and fat mass correlated significantly with sexual satisfaction. Weight and shape concerns moderated this relationship, affecting sexual satisfaction beyond the effect of body size and composition. Given the "unattractive stereotype" of older women related to the enduring social beauty ideal of a youthful and thin body, positive body perceptions in light of age-associated bodily changes should be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mernone
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Serena Fiacco
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,University Research Priority Program Dynamics of Healthy Aging, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Body image as a global mental health concern. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e9. [PMID: 36861019 PMCID: PMC9970735 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Body image concerns related to weight or other dimensions of appearance are now prevalent on a global scale. This paper reviews the theoretical frameworks that account for the global similarities and regional differences in rates and presentation of body image concerns, as well as reviewing the extant data. Given the harmful consequences of body image concerns in terms of mental and physical health, their global burden is high. Interventions to mitigate these concerns at the individual and systemic level are warranted.
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Pavanello Decaro S, Anzani A, Di Sarno M, Di Pierro R, Prunas A. Men’s sexual distress: the role of body image and vulnerable narcissistic traits. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2022.2124404] [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: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Annalisa Anzani
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Di Sarno
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Prunas
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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Fischer N, Træen B. A Seemingly Paradoxical Relationship Between Masturbation Frequency and Sexual Satisfaction. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:3151-3167. [PMID: 35790612 PMCID: PMC9255456 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02305-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite many benefits related to masturbation, we know surprisingly little about how solo sex is associated with sexual satisfaction. Using questionnaire data from a probability-based sample of 4,160 Norwegians aged 18-89 years, we explored subgroups of women and men that differed in their masturbation-sexual satisfaction typology and examined whether sociodemographic, psychological, and sexual behavioral characteristics were associated with distinct masturbation-satisfaction patterns. A cluster analysis revealed four similar groupings for women and men, reflecting sex lives characterized by high masturbation/sexual satisfaction, low masturbation/sexual satisfaction, high masturbation/sexual dissatisfaction, or low masturbation/sexual dissatisfaction. While being younger, higher pornography consumption, and sexual variety were primarily associated with increased masturbation frequency, sexual distress and a negative body and genital self-image were more clearly associated with sexual dissatisfaction. Predicting different masturbation-satisfaction groupings also revealed some gender-specific findings in the use of pornography, and in the association between masturbation and intercourse frequency, which suggested a complementary pattern for women and a compensatory pattern for men. Our findings emphasize that the linkage between masturbation and sexual satisfaction warrants closer focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nantje Fischer
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Gaustadalleén 30, 0373, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Bente Træen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Gaustadalleén 30, 0373, Oslo, Norway
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Spivak-Lavi Z, Gewirtz-Meydan A. Eating Disorders and Sexual Satisfaction: The Mediating Role of Body Image Self-consciousness during Physical Intimacy and Dissociation. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:344-353. [PMID: 34269636 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1948491] [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
Women with eating disorders experience difficulties related to sexual activity, yet little is known about the indirect association between eating disorders and sexual satisfaction. This study examined the indirect association between eating disorders and sexual satisfaction using body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy and dissociation as mediators. Online questionnaires were answered by 985 Israeli women. Of them, 98 were identified as likely to have eating disorders (study group). A matching control group (n = 98) was selected from the remaining respondents. Participants in the study group had significantly higher body image self-consciousness and dissociation than the matched controls, as well as significantly lower sexual satisfaction. The research model revealed that body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy mediates the link between eating disorders and sexual satisfaction, while dissociation does not. Women with eating disorders have higher levels of self-consciousness about their body during sexual activity, which may distract them from their own sexual needs and desires and those of their partners, and this, in turn, is associated with sexual dissatisfaction. Findings highlight the need for improved evidenced-based assessment and management of the sexual satisfaction of women with eating disorders.Abbreviations: ED: eating disorders; AN: anorexia nervosa; BN: bulimia nervosa; BED: binge eating disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohar Spivak-Lavi
- Faculty of Social Work & Faculty of Education, Max Stern Yezreel Valley College
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Gewirtz-Meydan A, Mitchell KJ, Spivak-Lavi Z, Kraus SW. Attachment insecurities and body image self-consciousness among women: The mediating role of pornography use. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.106916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Laan ETM, Klein V, Werner MA, van Lunsen RHW, Janssen E. In Pursuit of Pleasure: A Biopsychosocial Perspective on Sexual Pleasure and Gender. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:516-536. [PMID: 38595780 PMCID: PMC10903695 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1965689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Various sources of evidence suggest that men and women differ in their experience of sexual pleasure. Such gender differences have been attributed to men's higher innate sex drive, supported by evolutionary psychology perspectives and gender differences in reproductive strategies. Method: This paper presents biopsychosocial evidence for gender similarities in the capacity to experience pleasure, and for substantial gender differences in opportunities for sexual pleasure. Results: We conclude that sexual activity, in most cultures, is less pleasurable and associated with greater cost for heterosexual women than for heterosexual men, even though they do not differ in the capacity for sexual pleasure. Conclusion: Since gender differences in experienced sexual pleasure are not a biological given, a more critical discourse of sexual pleasure might create awareness of current inequalities, help lift restrictions for women's opportunities for pleasure, and could reduce gender differences in the cost of sex. That would truly serve sexual justice around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen T. M. Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Verena Klein
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marlene A. Werner
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rik H. W. van Lunsen
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erick Janssen
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Appearance Satisfaction as a Predictor of Specific Sexual Problems and Associated Distress. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1532-1544. [PMID: 37057431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Appearance dissatisfaction is a sensitive issue and has been tied to depression, dissatisfaction in romantic relationships, and reduced sexual satisfaction. AIM This study sought to examine associations between appearance satisfaction and specific sexual problems and related distress, testing also the moderating role of relationship satisfaction. METHODS A large web-sample of Norwegians in romantic relationships (N = 2,903) completed a one-time survey. OUTCOMES Participants reported on their experience of five different sexual problems and associated level of distress. RESULTS We found that appearance satisfaction was associated with reporting fewer sexual problems, and specifically, with a smaller likelihood of experiencing problems with lack of enjoyment, lack of excitement, and lack of climax. Furthermore, appearance satisfaction was unrelated to overall sexual problem-related distress, but was associated with feeling less distress about lack of excitement and lack of climax. Relationship satisfaction did not serve as a moderator of the associations. CLINICAL TRANSLATION These findings suggest the importance of attending to appearance satisfaction when working with clients with multiple sexual problems, particularly those related to excitement and enjoyment. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Strengths of the study include a large sample of partnered adults and assessment of specific sexual problems and associated distress. A limitation is that outcomes were assessed using single items, rather than multi-item scales. CONCLUSION The study highlights the importance of examining the presence of sexual problems and associated distress separately, and to consider appearance satisfaction as a predictor of sexual functioning. Øverup CS, Strizzi JM, Cipric A, et al. Appearance Satisfaction as a Predictor of Specific Sexual Problems and Associated Distress. J Sex Med 2021;XX:XXX-XXX.
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Bowsfield ML, Cobb RJ. Sexual Anxiety Mediates Dyadic Associations Between Body Satisfaction and Sexual Quality in Mixed-Sex Couples. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2603-2619. [PMID: 34401993 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-01999-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Body satisfaction predicts sexual quality among women and men; however, mechanisms of the association are largely unknown. We hypothesized that sexual anxiety would mediate average associations over 1 year between individuals' body satisfaction and their own and their partner's sexual quality, which is comprised of their sexual satisfaction and dissatisfaction, in 123 mixed-sex cohabiting couples. Results of Actor-Partner Interdependence Models extended to Mediation (APIMeM) and tested via multilevel modelling partially supported the hypotheses. Specifically, individuals' body satisfaction indirectly predicted their own and their partner's sexual satisfaction through individuals' sexual anxiety, and indirectly predicted their own, but not their partner's sexual dissatisfaction through individuals' sexual anxiety. Thus, when individuals are relatively less satisfied with their bodies, they may experience anxiety during sexual encounters, which then interferes with their own and their partner's sexual quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa L Bowsfield
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Rebecca J Cobb
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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Gewirtz-Meydan A, Mitchell KJ, Spivak-Lavi Z. Attachment and Sexual Functioning: Understanding the Mediating Role of Body Image Among LGB and Non-LGB Women. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1245-1257. [PMID: 37057421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite studies showing that individuals with insecure attachment suffer from poor body image, and that poor body image is a main risk factor for sexual dysfunction, the mediating role of body image between attachment insecurities and sexual functioning has not been assessed. Moreover, differences in body self-consciousness among sexual minority women have not been examined, even though LGB individuals have been found to be more conscious of stigma and the disapproval of others. AIM To fill this gap, the current study examines the mediating role of body image self-consciousness between insecure attachment and sexual functioning among LGB and non-LGB women. METHODS The study sample consisted of 1,001 women; of them, 808 defined themselves as heterosexual (80.7%), and 193 (19.3%) identified as LGB. The sample was a convenience sample of women who responded to ads on social media. Participants completed an online questionnaire (via Qualtrics) about their attachment orientation, body-image self-consciousness, and sexual functioning. MAIN OUTCOME Body image self-consciousness mediated the relationship between insecure attachment and sexual dysfunction among women in general and LGB women in particular. RESULTS Results indicated that among LGB women, the relationship between attachment and sexual functioning was fully mediated by body image self-consciousness. For non-LGB women, a full model with statistically significant direct and indirect effects was revealed. Both avoidant attachment and anxious attachment were related to body image self-consciousness which was, in turn, related to sexual functioning. A statistically significant direct path from avoidant attachment to sexual functioning was also revealed. CONCLUSION The study findings contribute to the literature by revealing the mediating role that body image self-consciousness plays between insecure attachment and sexual dysfunction among women in general and LGB women in particular. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This study provides support for the negative relationship between body image self-consciousness and sexual functioning of women regardless of sexual orientation, and suggests that women affected by body image concerns might be prone to more sexual dysfunction. Therefore, body image self-consciousness should be brought up in sex therapy sessions and future interventions. Clinicians should also be cognizant of differences between LGB and non-LGB women in terms of this effect, taking into account the history of stigma that LGB women may have endured and how this history affects their body image. Gewirtz-Meydan A, Mitchell KJ, Spivak-Lavi Z. Attachment and Sexual Functioning: Understanding the Mediating Role of Body Image Among LGB and Non-LGB Women. J Sex Med 2021;18:1245-1257.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan
- School of Social Work, Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. Agewirtz-@univ.haifa.ac.il
| | - Kimberly J Mitchell
- Crimes Against Children Research Center, University of New Hampshire, NH, USA
| | - Zohar Spivak-Lavi
- Faculty of Social Work & Faculty of Education, Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Emek Yezreel, Israel
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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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GENITAL SELF IMAGE IN WOMEN AND AFFECTING FACTORS. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH AND POLICY 2020. [DOI: 10.33457/ijhsrp.810985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Kvalem IL, Graham CA, Hald GM, Carvalheira AA, Janssen E, Štulhofer A. The role of body image in sexual satisfaction among partnered older adults: a population-based study in four European countries. Eur J Ageing 2020; 17:163-173. [PMID: 32549871 PMCID: PMC7292835 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00542-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Body image issues can affect all domains of sexual functioning. The aim of this study was to examine how, in a sociocultural context where physical and sexual attractiveness is equated with young and slim body ideals, appearance dissatisfaction and importance are related to sexual satisfaction in older adults in four European countries. A cross-sectional survey with probability samples of the population aged 60-75 years was used. Only respondents with a partner were included in this paper, and the countries included Norway (n = 957), Denmark (n = 846), Belgium (n = 612), and Portugal (n = 367). Sexual satisfaction, appearance dissatisfaction, and importance were assessed, and frequency of intercourse/kissing and cuddling, relationship satisfaction, age, and body mass index were all used as control variables. Belgian men scored significantly lower on sexual satisfaction, while there was no difference in sexual satisfaction in women. Appearance dissatisfaction was lower in Scandinavian women and men, and in Belgian men, and appearance salience was lower in Norwegian men and women, and in Portuguese women. Linear regression analysis revealed that, adjusting for confounders, appearance dissatisfaction was significantly related to sexual satisfaction in Scandinavian women and men, as well as in Belgian men. Compared to research on younger adults, appearance evaluation appeared to play an equally important role in sexual satisfaction in older adults in our study. The variation in appearance dissatisfaction in older adults across European countries is a novel finding that needs to be examined further.
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Lolowang NL, Afiyanti Y, Ungsianik T. Kegel's exercise to improve sexual self-efficacy in primiparous women. ENFERMERIA CLINICA 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.enfcli.2019.04.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Kvalem IL, Træen B, Markovic A, von Soest T. Body Image Development and Sexual Satisfaction: A Prospective Study From Adolescence to Adulthood. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:791-801. [PMID: 30260677 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1518400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to explore whether developmental trajectories of body satisfaction from adolescence to young adulthood predicted measures of sexual satisfaction in young adulthood, even when controlling for important covariates such as gender, weight development, relationship status, mental health, and frequency of sexual intercourse and masturbation. Data were collected from a population-based prospective cohort of Norwegian adolescents (n = 2,587) over a period of 13 years in four waves (1992, 1994, 1999, and 2005; mean age = 14.9 in 1992, 57.3% women). Latent growth curves were estimated for body satisfaction and body mass index (BMI). Men reported higher sexual satisfaction, sexual activity, baseline body satisfaction, and BMI than women. The developmental trajectories revealed a slight increase in body satisfaction and BMI from adolescence to young adulthood in both genders. Moreover, structural equation models showed that baseline body satisfaction in both genders predicted sexual satisfaction as a young adult, independent of relationship status and frequency of sexual activity. Neither the development of BMI nor of body satisfaction predicted sexual satisfaction. The results elucidate the vital role of body satisfaction in sexual satisfaction in adults and the importance of addressing body dissatisfaction in childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bente Træen
- a Department of Psychology , University of Oslo
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16
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The role of body image concern, sexual body image, and sexual self-esteem in the happiness of women seeking rhinoplasty surgery. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00238-017-1382-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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17
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van den Brink F, Vollmann M, Sternheim LC, Berkhout LJ, Zomerdijk RA, Woertman L. Negative Body Attitudes and Sexual Dissatisfaction in Men: The Mediating Role of Body Self-Consciousness During Physical Intimacy. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47. [PMID: 28646479 PMCID: PMC5834587 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-1016-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Previous research indicated that negative attitudes about the body and appearance are common among men and demonstrated that negative body attitudes are associated with negative sexual experiences. The present study investigated the association between body attitudes and sexual dissatisfaction and the mediating role of body self-consciousness during physical intimacy. In a cross-sectional design, 201 Dutch men completed an online survey regarding body attitudes toward muscularity, body fat, height, and genitals, body self-consciousness during physical intimacy, and sexual dissatisfaction. Hypotheses were tested using correlation analyses and a mediation analysis with body attitudes as predictors, body self-consciousness as mediator, and sexual dissatisfaction as outcome. Correlation analyses showed that negative body attitudes and body self-consciousness during physical intimacy were significantly related to sexual dissatisfaction. The mediation analysis revealed that negative attitudes toward muscularity, body fat, and genitals had indirect effects on sexual dissatisfaction through body self-consciousness during physical intimacy. Negative attitudes toward genitals additionally had a direct effect on sexual dissatisfaction. These findings indicate that body image interventions focused on male body attitudes may be beneficial in improving men's body image, which may ultimately increase sexual satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke van den Brink
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Manja Vollmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Hagen, Hagen, Germany
| | - Lot C Sternheim
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte J Berkhout
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Renée A Zomerdijk
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Woertman
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Ferrer-Márquez M, Pomares-Callejón MÁ, Fernández-Agis I, Belda-Lozano R, Vidaña-Márquez E, Soriano-Maldonado A. Sexual satisfaction following bariatric surgery: A prospective exploratory study. Cir Esp 2017; 95:521-528. [PMID: 29096873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ciresp.2017.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bariatric surgery improves sexual function in obese individuals, although the extent to which sexual satisfaction is improved following surgery is unknown. The aims of this study were 1) to describe sexual satisfaction in severely/morbidly obese men and women candidates for bariatric surgery; 2) to assess the effects of bariatric surgery on sexual satisfaction at 12-months follow-up; and 3) to assess whether weight changes at follow-up following bariatric surgery are associated with changes in sexual satisfaction. METHODS We conducted a prospective observational study from February 2011 to June 2014. A total of 44 patients with severe/morbid obesity participated in the study. Sexual satisfaction was assessed (at baseline and 12-months follow-up) through the Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS) questionnaire. RESULTS Of 44 patients who completed the ISS at baseline (mean age 40.3 [SD=9.4] years and BMI 46.9 [SD=6.2] kg/m2), 17 were lost to follow-up. The baseline ISS total scores were 32.0 (SD=20.1) in women and 24.4 (SD=16.0) in men (P>0.05). The proportion of sexually satisfied men and women at baseline was 62.5% and 46.4%, respectively (P=0.360). At follow-up, sexual satisfaction improved significantly in women (average difference 13.7 units; P=0.032) but not in men (average difference 3.6 units; P=0.717). The percentage of women with sexual satisfaction problems was reduced by 33% at follow-up (P=0.038). CONCLUSIONS A relatively large percentage of severely/morbidly obese women and men present clinically significant sexual satisfaction problems before undergoing bariatric surgery. Sexual satisfaction improves significantly 12 months following bariatric surgery, particularly in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ferrer-Márquez
- Departamento de Cirugía Bariátrica, Cirugía General, Hospital de Torrecárdenas, Torrecárdenas (Almería), España.
| | | | - Inmaculada Fernández-Agis
- Departamento de Psicología, Universidad de Almería. Centro de Evaluación y Rehabilitación Neuropsicológica (CERNEP), Almería, España; Investigadora Asociada. Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ricardo Belda-Lozano
- Departamento de Cirugía Bariátrica, Cirugía General, Hospital de Torrecárdenas, Torrecárdenas (Almería), España
| | - Elisabet Vidaña-Márquez
- Departamento de Cirugía Bariátrica, Cirugía General, Hospital de Torrecárdenas, Torrecárdenas (Almería), España
| | - Alberto Soriano-Maldonado
- Departamento de Educación, Facultad de Ciencias de la Educación, Universidad de Almería, Almería, España; Centro de Investigación CERNEP, Universidad de Almería, Almería, España
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Ferrer-Márquez M, Pomares-Callejón MÁ, Fernández-Agis I, Belda-Lozano R, Vidaña-Márquez E, Soriano-Maldonado A. Sexual Satisfaction Following Bariatric Surgery: A Prospective Exploratory Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cireng.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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