Sexual Adjustment: A Review of the Literature
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on sexual adjustment and its associated factors. This review summarizes the current evidence on the psychosocial and physiological aspects of sexual adjustment, with a particular focus on the role of gender and relationship satisfaction. The literature suggests that sexual adjustment is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by multiple factors, including self-esteem, communication, and gender roles. Additionally, the literature indicates that sexual adjustment is associated with relationship satisfaction and overall well-being, with both partners’ satisfaction being essential for successful sexual adjustment.
Keywords: Sexual adjustment, gender, relationship satisfaction, self-esteem, communication
Introduction
Sexual adjustment is a complex phenomenon that involves the physical, psychological, and social aspects of sexual functioning and satisfaction (Bancroft, Janssen, & Strong, 2008; Meston & Buss, 2007). It is necessary for an individual and their partner to be sexually adjusted in order to have a healthy and fulfilling sexual relationship (Meston & Buss, 2007). Although there has been an increasing amount of research on sexual adjustment in recent years, there is still a need for further research in this area. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature on sexual adjustment and its associated factors.
Psychosocial Aspects of Sexual Adjustment
Self-Esteem
Self-esteem is an important factor in sexual adjustment, as it is associated with sexual satisfaction and performance (Bancroft et al., 2008). Low self-esteem has been linked to poorer sexual functioning, such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and difficulties with arousal, as well as decreased sexual satisfaction (Bancroft et al., 2008). Additionally, low self-esteem has been associated with negative body image, which can lead to decreased sexual satisfaction and performance (Meston & Buss, 2007).
Communication
Communication is an important factor in sexual adjustment, as it can facilitate the development and maintenance of a healthy sexual relationship (Meston & Buss, 2007). Open and honest communication about sexual desires and needs is essential for a satisfying sexual relationship (Meston & Buss, 2007). Additionally, communication can help to reduce misunderstandings and foster mutual respect and understanding in the relationship (Meston & Buss, 2007).
Gender Roles
Gender roles can also influence sexual adjustment, as they shape individuals’ expectations for the roles they will play in a sexual relationship (Meston & Buss, 2007). For example, traditional gender roles can lead to a lack of equal power between the partners, which can lead to feelings of pressure or coercion and can decrease sexual satisfaction (Meston & Buss, 2007). Additionally, traditional gender roles can lead to a lack of communication about sexual needs and desires, which can lead to dissatisfaction with the sexual relationship (Meston & Buss, 2007).
Physiological Aspects of Sexual Adjustment
Physical health is an important factor in sexual adjustment, as it can influence sexual performance and satisfaction (Bancroft et al., 2008). For example, physical illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression can lead to erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and decreased satisfaction with the sexual relationship (Bancroft et al., 2008). Additionally, medications such as antidepressants can also lead to decreased libido and decreased satisfaction with the sexual relationship (Bancroft et al., 2008).
Relationship Satisfaction
Relationship satisfaction is an important factor in sexual adjustment, as it can influence sexual performance and satisfaction (Bancroft et al., 2008). Research has consistently found that relationship satisfaction is associated with sexual satisfaction and performance (Bancroft et al., 2008). Additionally, research indicates that both partners’ satisfaction is essential for successful sexual adjustment (Meston & Buss, 2007).
Conclusion
This paper has reviewed the literature on sexual adjustment and its associated factors. The evidence suggests that sexual adjustment is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by multiple factors, including self-esteem, communication, and gender roles. Additionally, the literature indicates that sexual adjustment is associated with relationship satisfaction and overall well-being, with both partners’ satisfaction being essential for successful sexual adjustment.
References
Bancroft, J., Janssen, E., & Strong, D. (2008). The dual control model: The role of sexual inhibition and excitation in sexual arousal and behavior. In J. Bancroft (Ed.), Human Sexuality and its Problems (3rd ed., pp. 119-151). Edinburgh, UK: Churchill Livingstone.
Meston, C. M., & Buss, D. M. (2007). Why humans have sex. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 36(4), 477-507. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-007-9172-4