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The Interrelationships Between Sexual Problems and Sexual Satisfaction: A Two-Year Longitudinal Study with Dyads
Julia McNeil1, Christine Logel2, Uzma S Rehman1
1Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo.
Journal of Sex Research
|December 18, 2025
Summary
Sexual problems in relationships predict lower sexual satisfaction over time. Addressing sexual issues may improve relationship satisfaction, as satisfaction does not appear to cause sexual problems.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Relationship Science
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Sexual problems and sexual satisfaction are linked, but causality is unclear.
- Most research is cross-sectional, limiting understanding of directionality.
- Prospective studies are needed to explore causal links and partner effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the relationship between sexual problems and sexual satisfaction.
- To examine potential partner effects in this association.
- To determine if nonsexual relationship problems mediate the link between sexual problems and satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- Dyadic cross-lagged analyses were used.
- Data on sexual satisfaction, sexual problems, and nonsexual problems were collected two years apart.
- The study included 109 mixed-sex couples, with 83 completing both time points.
Main Results:
- Higher baseline sexual problems predicted lower sexual satisfaction two years later.
- Lower baseline sexual satisfaction did not predict future sexual problems.
- Nonsexual problems did not explain the predictive relationship between sexual problems and satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Sexual problems precede decreases in sexual satisfaction.
- Sexual problems appear to be a direct contributor to reduced sexual satisfaction.
- Interventions targeting sexual problems may enhance relationship satisfaction.
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