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Association between Sexual Satisfaction and Depression and Anxiety in Adolescents and Young Adults

Author

Listed:
  • Rodrigo J. Carcedo

    (Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Salamanca, 37005 Salamanca, Spain)

  • Noelia Fernández-Rouco

    (Department of Education, University of Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain)

  • Andrés A. Fernández-Fuertes

    (Department of Education, University of Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain)

  • José Luis Martínez-Álvarez

    (Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Salamanca, 37005 Salamanca, Spain)

Abstract

The role of sexual satisfaction in adolescents and young adults’ mental health has not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this work is to study differences in sexual satisfaction and mental health (anxiety and depression) based on romantic relationship status (having a partner vs. not having one) and gender. Likewise, the association between sexual satisfaction and mental health and the moderating effect of romantic relationship status and gender was addressed in this research. A total of 1682 Spanish adolescents (14–17) and young adults (18–29) agreed to participate in this cross-sectional investigation. Two-factor ANOVA and MANOVA, and hierarchical regression models were utilized in this study. In general, results showed more difficulties in sexual satisfaction and mental health for those not in a current relationship and for women. Additionally, higher levels of sexual satisfaction was associated with lower levels of anxiety for adolescents and lower levels of depression for young adults. These associations were stronger for those in a current relationship. This study highlights the importance of sexual satisfaction as a modifying factor against mental health problems, especially in the context of a current romantic relationship.

Suggested Citation

  • Rodrigo J. Carcedo & Noelia Fernández-Rouco & Andrés A. Fernández-Fuertes & José Luis Martínez-Álvarez, 2020. "Association between Sexual Satisfaction and Depression and Anxiety in Adolescents and Young Adults," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-17, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:17:y:2020:i:3:p:841-:d:314059
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Romeo, Katherine E. & Kelley, Michele A., 2009. "Incorporating human sexuality content into a positive youth development framework: Implications for community prevention," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 31(9), pages 1001-1009, September.
    2. Li, Xuan & Huang, Ching-Yu Soar & Shen, April Chiung-Tao, 2019. "Romantic involvement and adolescents' academic and psychosocial functioning in Chinese societies," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 96(C), pages 108-117.
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    Cited by:

    1. Rubén López-Bueno & Guillermo F. López-Sánchez & Alejandro Gil-Salmerón & Igor Grabovac & Mark A. Tully & José Casaña & Lee Smith, 2021. "COVID-19 Confinement and Sexual Activity in Spain: A Cross-Sectional Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-9, March.
    2. Alexandra S. Marcotte & Ellen M. Kaufman & Jessica T. Campbell & Tania A. Reynolds & Justin R. Garcia & Amanda N. Gesselman, 2021. "Sextech Use as a Potential Mental Health Reprieve: The Role of Anxiety, Depression, and Loneliness in Seeking Sex Online," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(17), pages 1-15, August.

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