1. Relational and Interpersonal Predictors of Sexual Satisfaction.
- Author
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Freihart, Bridget K., Sears, Mackenzie A., and Meston, Cindy M.
- Abstract
Purpose of Review: This review aims to compile recent research on the interpersonal and relational predictors of sexual satisfaction and to identify key trends in this area of research. Recent Findings: The introduction of the Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction (IEMSS) in 1995 caused researchers to begin conceptualizing sexual satisfaction in a relational context, rather than as an evaluation of individual sexual experiences. This shift gave rise to more dyadic research on sexual satisfaction, and in recent years, dyad-focused research has identified a number of factors that either facilitate or attenuate sexual satisfaction at the partner and relational levels. Factors such as communication, sexual compatibility, and relationship satisfaction have all been shown to facilitate greater sexual satisfaction. Conversely, factors like desire discrepancies and sexual dysfunction are common attenuators. Though recent research has yielded a greater understanding of the factors that are associated with sexual satisfaction, the current review identified an acute lack of experimental manipulations and individual differences research in this area, which may inhibit the development of effective treatments to maximize sexual satisfaction at the couple-level. Summary: Current research on sexual satisfaction has identified a number of important interpersonal factors that predict sexual satisfaction levels; however, there is still a great need for research that will clarify the directionality of these relationships and examine individual differences to inform treatment development and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
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