The Relationship Between Emotion Regulation and Sexual Function and Satisfaction: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction: Sexual problems are characterized by difficulties in the ability to respond sexually or to obtain sexual pleasure. Their etiology is assumed to be multifactorial, demanding a biopsychosocial treatment approach. Positive sexual experiences involve the dynamic interplay between cognitive, emotional, and motivational factors. Difficulties in emotion identification or impairment in emotion regulation may thus play a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of sexual problems.

Objectives: To conduct a scoping review of the literature on the effects of emotion regulation on sexual function and satisfaction.

Methods: We conducted a scoping review using Cinahl, Lilacs, Scielo, Scopus, PsycInfo and Pubmed electronic databases using search terms related to emotion regulation and sexual function and satisfaction.

Results: 27 articles met the inclusion criteria and were further analyzed. Overall, emotion regulation difficulties were associated with poorer sexual health outcomes, difficulties in the sexual response cycle and overall lower sexual satisfaction. Laboratory studies and intervention trials found positive effects of promoting emotion regulation change on sexual function and satisfaction.

Conclusions: Despite the methodological diversity of studies, it can be concluded from this review that difficulties in emotion regulation are related to sexual difficulties and sexual dissatisfaction. Future research should consider emotion regulation-focused interventions to mitigate sexual health problems. Fischer VJ, Andersson G, Billieux J, et al. The Relationship Between Emotion Regulation and Sexual Function and Satisfaction: A Scoping Review. Sex Med Rev 2022;10:195-208.

Keywords: Emotion regulation; Scoping review; Sexual disorders; Sexual health; Sexual satisfaction; Systematic review.