Sexism and sexual dysfunctional beliefs. (original) (raw)

2017, Journal of Sexual Medicine

Objective: Previous studies examined the influence of sexism, gender stereotypes, and sexual beliefs on relationships and sexual behaviours. Clinical expertise in sexology and couple therapy leads to think that rigid scripts and dysfunctional beliefs, about gender and sexuality, negatively affect relational and sexual satisfaction. The aim of the present explorative study was to analyse the correlation between benevolent and hostile sexism, sexual dysfunctional beliefs (SDB) and sexual and relational satisfaction in a group of heterosexual men and women. In line with the literature, we expected worse profile of satisfaction on people who scored higher on sexism and dysfunctional beliefs; moreover, we expected different associations between specific stereotypes and satisfaction depending on gender. Methods: The participants were 592 (354 F, 238 M). They completed: Questionnaire on socio-demographic Information, Ambivalent Sexism Inventory; Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire; Dyadic Adjustment Scale; Sexual Satisfaction Scale. Results: Male group showed a negative correlation between SDB, dyadic and sexual satisfaction. A negative correlation between hostile sexism and dyadic satisfaction has been observed. Results highlighted, in female group, a negative correlation between SDB and sexual and dyadic satisfaction. Only for females, the affection-primacy subscale resulted as the main predictor of dyadic satisfaction (b¼.246; p<.001) among the studied variables. Conclusion: Cultural factors have a significant impact on sexual satisfaction. The results of the present study suggest that different variables, in both male’s and female’s satisfaction, should be considered. Today stereotypes seem to be stronger in males. The dimensions of affect and sexuality are different for women, and it is important to explore both of them during counselling and sex therapy. Policy of full disclosure: None