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Intimacy and sexual functioning after cancer: The intersection with psychological flexibility
Cecile J Proctor1, Anthony J Reiman2,3,4, Caroline Brunelle1
1Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada.
PLOS Mental Health
|February 9, 2026
Summary
Psychological flexibility (PF) enhances cancer survivors' satisfaction with life by promoting value-aligned actions. This approach improves relationship and sexual satisfaction, crucial for overall well-being after cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Cancer significantly impacts survivors' overall life satisfaction.
- Psychological flexibility (PF) aids in managing cancer-related distress by promoting adaptive coping strategies.
- Limited research exists on PF's influence on relationship and sexual satisfaction in cancer survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between psychological flexibility pillars and psychological wellness.
- To explore how psychological flexibility mediates the association between relationship/sexual satisfaction and overall life satisfaction in cancer survivors.
Main Methods:
- 113 males and 106 females completed validated questionnaires on sexual function, intimacy, relationship/sexual satisfaction, PF, life satisfaction, anxiety, and depression.
- Mediation analyses were conducted to examine the role of PF pillars (Valued Action, Behavioural Awareness, Openness to Experience) in linking satisfaction outcomes to life satisfaction.
Main Results:
- 57.5% of both males and females reported sexual dysfunction, with sex-specific relationship patterns observed.
- Significant positive relationships were found between overall life satisfaction and both relationship and sexual satisfaction.
- Valued Action and Openness to Experience partially mediated the relationship between relationship satisfaction and overall life satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Value-aligned behaviors (Valued Action) are significant mediators for both relationship and sexual satisfaction concerning overall life satisfaction.
- Valued Action emerged as the sole partial mediator between sexual satisfaction and overall life satisfaction.
- Interventions focusing on value-aligned behaviors may be beneficial for improving the well-being of cancer survivors.
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