Body Image Self-Consciousness during Physical Intimacy and Sexual Dissatisfaction in Women: The Mediating Role of Sexual Self-Esteem

Abstract

Previous research indicated that negative cognitions about one’s physical appearance and self-consciousness during sexual activity are associated with greater sexual dissatisfaction. The present study investigated the mediating role of sexual self-esteem in the association between body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy and sexual dissatisfaction. In a cross-sectional design, 163 Dutch female university students completed an online survey measuring body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy, sexual dissatisfaction and sexual self-esteem. Results of a correlation analysis showed that higher levels of body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy was related to greater sexual dissatisfaction. A mediation analysis revealed that higher levels of body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy was associated with lower sexual self-esteem which, in turn, was associated with greater sexual dissatisfaction. Additionally, higher levels of body image self-consciousness during physical intimacy was directly related to greater sexual dissatisfaction. The results support the role of cognitive distraction based on appearance during sexual activities and confident in oneself as a sexual partner in predicting sexual dissatisfaction. Based on these findings, clinicians should asses body image self-consciousness in female patients with sexuality-related mental health issues, as well as sexual self-esteem to determine the best therapeutic intervention.