María del Mar Sánchez-Fuentes

A systematic review of sexual satisfaction

Abstract The present theoretical study is a systematic review of research publications in which sexual satisfaction was the dependent variable. After conducting a literature search in major electronic databases and following a selection process, we provide a summary of the main findings of 197 scientific papers published between 1979 and 2012. The review revealed the complexity and importance of sexual satisfaction, which was associated with the following variables and factors: a) individual variables such as socio-demographic and psychological characteristics as well as physical and psychological health status; b) variables associated with intimate relationships and sexual response; c) factors related to social support and family relationships; and d) cultural beliefs and values such as religion. In conclusion, we observed that sexual satisfaction is a key factor in individuals’ sexual health and overall well-being. However, despite its importance, there is a lack of theoretical models combining the most important factors to explain sexual satisfaction.

Validation of the Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire in a Spanish Sample

The Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (IEMSSQ) contains a number of separate measures that, together, have been useful in enhancing understanding of sexual satisfaction because it is based on a validated theoretical framework and has good psychometric properties. The present study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the IEMSSQ in a Spanish sample of 520 men and 701 women in a mixed-sex relationship. Participants completed Spanish translations of the IEMSSQ, the Index of Sexual Satisfaction, the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the Massachusetts General Hospital–Sexual Functioning Questionnaire. The results showed that the Spanish IEMSSQ has good psychometric properties. Internal consistency values were excellent. For the most part, test-retest reliabilities were good, except for the equality components, for which they were moderate. Consistent with predictions, the various subscales were correlated with scores on sexual satisfaction, dyadic adjustment, and sexual functioning, demonstrating good concurrent and convergent validity. The applicability of the IEMSSQ for use with Spanish speakers in clinical and research settings is discussed.

Sexual satisfaction in a heterosexual and homosexual Spanish sample: the role of socio-demographic characteristics, health indicators, and relational factors

The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between (1) sexual satisfaction and (2) socio-demographic variables, health status, and relational factors in Spanish men and women. Using a quota sampling method, we assessed 2024 subjects aged between 18 and 80 years old with a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction, the Global Measure of Relationship Satisfaction, the Short Form-36 Health Survey, and the Symptom Assessment-45 Questionnaire. Regarding the results, no significant differences in sexual satisfaction were found according to gender or sexual orientation. At the bivariate level, sexual satisfaction was negatively correlated with age, low education level, psychopathological symptoms, and length of relationship, and positively correlated with better physical health and relationship satisfaction. In heterosexual individuals, 55% of the variance in sexual satisfaction was predicted by vitality, depression, relationship satisfaction, length of relationship, and type of relationship. In homosexual individuals, bodily pain and relationship satisfaction predicted 44% of the variance in sexual satisfaction. Finally, the impact of health and relational variables on the sexual well-being of adults in the context of sex therapy is discussed.

Sexual Satisfaction in Spanish Heterosexual Couples: Testing the Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction

The study of sexual satisfaction in Spain is scarce and has proceeded atheoretically. This study aimed at examining sexual satisfaction in 197 Spanish heterosexual couples based on the Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction. Men and women reported equal satisfaction. Mens sexual satisfaction was predicted by their own relationship satisfaction, balance of sexual rewards and costs, and comparison level of sexual rewards and costs. Womens sexual satisfaction was predicted by their own relationship satisfaction, balance of sexual rewards and costs, comparison level of sexual rewards and costs, equality of sexual costs, and their partners balance of sexual rewards and costs. These results provide with a better understanding of the mechanisms that explain sexual satisfaction in Spanish couples. Implications for research and therapy are discussed.

Factors associated with Facebook jealousy in three Spanish-Speaking countries

ABSTRACT Nowadays, control over ones partner is easily maintained through social networks, such as Facebook. The aim of this study was to analyze the factors associated with Facebook-jealousy. We examined a total sample of 1144 individuals distributed as follows: data from Spain (n = 393), Colombia (n = 600), and Ecuador (n = 151 individuals), with ages ranging from 14 to 42 years old. All participants held nationality from one of the respective countries, were currently or had been enrolled in a relationship, and both the participant and his/her/their partner also had a Facebook account. Participants completed an online survey with self-reported measures to evaluate: self-esteem, partner conflicts and their strategies to cope with them, romantic jealousy, and Facebook jealousy. Results show that the propensity to experience jealousy in the relationship and low self-esteem are related with more Facebook jealousy across the three countries. For both, Spain and Colombia, strategies to cope with partner conflicts are also associated with Facebook jealousy, in particular lower levels of constructive strategies and higher dominance are associated with greater Facebook jealousy. In short, Facebook jealousy represents another way to manifest jealousy that is influenced by both personal and relationship variables.