The Moderating Role of War-Time Stress on the Associations Between Sexual Distress and Sexual and Psychological Well-Being.

Abstract

This study investigates the moderating role of war-time stress on the associations between sexual distress with sexual and psychological well-being. The study focuses on individuals affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict during 2023-2024, using a retrospective design to assess pre-war levels of sexual distress together with current levels of well-being. Participants' exposure to direct stressors, media-related stressors, and acute stress symptoms were evaluated alongside their sexual and psychological well-being. The results indicate significant associations between sexual distress and measures of well-being, with war-time stress moderating these relationships. Higher levels of stress exposure attenuated the negative associations between sexual distress and well-being, suggesting a buffering effect. This counterintuitive finding may be explained by the prioritization of immediate survival concerns and the activation of resilience mechanisms under extreme stress. The findings have important implications for clinicians and policymakers in conflict-affected regions, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive, trauma-informed healthcare frameworks. By advancing the understanding of these dynamics, the study aims to contribute to the development of effective strategies to promote the well-being of individuals and communities impacted by armed conflicts. Future research should explore the proposed mechanisms through longitudinal studies and diverse data sources to further elucidate these relationships.