Dyadic Associations between Body Appreciation and Sexual Function among Cisgender Heterosexual and Gender and Sexually Diverse Couples.

Abstract

Given the body's exposure during partnered sexual activity, having a positive perception of one's body may impact sexual function, i.e., the capacity to respond sexually. Yet research on the associations between body appreciation and sexual function within couples is limited, particularly among couples who identify as gender and sexually diverse, who face greater risks of experiencing sexual difficulties due to minority stress. Examining body appreciation among couples may lead to clearer insights into their sexual function. The present study assessed dyadic associations between body appreciation and sexual function, examining the moderating effects of gender identity and sexual orientation, in a diverse sample of 151 couples. Results based on the actor-partner interdependence moderation model showed that a person's body appreciation was negatively related to their own sexual function difficulties, and to their partner's difficulties when the latter was heterosexual. Gender identity did not significantly moderate these associations. This study demonstrates the associations between a person's body appreciation and their own sexual function, as well as the role of the partner's sexual orientation in the association between a person's body appreciation and their partner's sexual function, highlighting the importance of considering sexual orientation to understand dyadic associations with sexual health.