Assessing the Role of Sexual Self-Consciousness and Sexual Self-Esteem in Male Orgasm: An Exploratory Study

Previous studies demonstrated the importance of attentional mechanisms in overall sexual response. However, there is a lack of studies on the impact of individual propensities to experience sexual self-consciousness (i.e. proneness for self-focus) in sexual situations, in the experience of male orgasm. This study aimed to understand the relationship between sexual self-consciousness (sexual self-focus and sexual embarrassment), sexual self-esteem, and male orgasm. A convenience sample of 150 undergraduate male students was recruited and participants were invited to complete a battery of self-reported questionnaires assessing orgasm, sexual self-consciousness, and sexual self-esteem. Findings showed a significant negative correlation between sexual embarrassment (i.e., propensity to feel embarrassed in sexual contexts) and male orgasm. Regression analysis further indicated that sexual embarrassment was the sole negative and significant predictor of orgasm. Regarding sexual self-esteem, a positive and significant correlation was found with orgasmic response. Sexual self-esteem also mediated the relationship between sexual embarrassment and orgasm. Overall, findings contribute to a deeper knowledge of the dimensions involved in the male orgasm Results may also contribute to the development of future programs aimed at the promotion of sexual literacy and the inclusion of psycho-emotional strategies to promote sexual health in men with orgasm difficulties.