Abstract
Introduction
Sexual function is an important area in women’s lives and has repercussions on well-being and sexual satisfaction. The literature identifies relational variables, such as romantic attachment, intimacy in relationships, and dyadic adjustment, as determinants that influence female sexual expression, satisfaction, and function. This study aimed to test a predictive model of female sexual function, contemplating possible relationships between these relational variables.
Methods
The participants in this study were 267 women in a romantic relationship, who completed, between 2017 and 2020, the Romantic Attachment Questionnaire, the Personal Assessment of Intimacy in Relationships Scale, the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the Female Sexual Function Index.
Results
Data analysis, using structural equation modeling (SEM), indicated an adjusted model. Trust and avoiding romantic attachment were positive predictors of intimacy. Ambivalent romantic attachment was a negative predictor of dyadic adjustment, while intimacy and dependent romantic attachment were positive predictors of dyadic adjustment, which, in turn, was a positive predictor of female sexual function. Age, as well as frequency and interest in sexual activity, was found to be associated with female sexual function and other variables.
Conclusions
These results are discussed in terms of the importance of contemplating relational variables in psychotherapeutic interventions for female sexual problems.
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Availability of Data and Material
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Code Availability
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Ribeiro, F.N., Sousa-Gomes, V., Moreira, D. et al. The Relationship Between Romantic Attachment, Intimacy, and Dyadic Adjustment for Female Sexual Function. Sex Res Soc Policy 19, 1920–1934 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-022-00738-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-022-00738-3