Psychological aspects of sexuality in adults with social anxiety disorder

Elling-Lueder, C; Chung, ML; Forstner, AJ; Spitzer, C; Rambau, S; Ramm, M; Geiser, F; Schumacher, J; Ernstmann, N; Brenk-Franz, K; Conrad; R

Abstract

Background: Sexual dysfunctions in individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD) have been previously reported. However, most of these results refer to physical and behavioral measures. Psychological aspects have not been previously researched. Method: In the present study, we utilized an online version of the "Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire" (MSQ) in a sample of individuals with SAD (n = 242, 40.70 ± 13.40 years, 58.7% female). We hypothesized greater difficulties for SAD individuals compared to controls without SAD through the influence of fear and avoidance symptoms. Results: Based on multivariate analyses (MANCOVA), SAD individuals showcased significant deficiencies in almost all subscales of the MSQ compared to the control group (partial η2 = 0.016 - 0.217, all p < .001). Moreover, men with SAD were significantly more preoccupied and motivated for sexual behaviour and relationships than women with SAD (partial η2 = 0.104 - 0.159, all p < .001). Conclusion: These results give first insights for psychological reasons possibly underlying sexual difficulties in SAD patients. SAD individuals spend less time thinking about and are less motivated for sexuality. Assertiveness and the belief of one's control and autonomy of sexuality are less pronounced in SAD individuals. Those signs can be approached via different techniques and therapeutic interventions if difficulties with sexuality and sexual satisfaction are relevant for those affected by SAD.