A Qualitative Research on Couples' Sexual Satisfaction With Emphasis on Individual Socio-Cultural Factors

Abstract

Background: Sexual satisfaction was one of the primary issues in marital life, but there are always factors that affect this satisfaction and affect the personal and social well-being of families. This study was aimed to investigate factors that may decrease couples' sexual satisfaction through a qualitative research. Methods: This study was a qualitative content analysis research. Purposeful sampling was used and after in-depth and open-ended interviews with 12 couples (12 female and 12 male), their experiences were analyzed through a thematic method. Results: Findings revealed that the reasons of sexual satisfaction reductions include personal deficits (cognitive distortions and inattention), interpersonal conflicts (interpersonal interference, weak interpersonal communication skills), and socioeconomic challenges (Fear of being labeled, economic shortages, and lack of skilled interveners). Conclusion: This qualitative research clarified some socio-cultural factors contributing to sexual satisfaction. The findings may have implication in the area of programming and planning for family health.