DIADICS: a proof-of-concept study in mixed-sex couples

Abstract

While the relational context of sexual desire is receiving increasing attention in research, generated insights remain fragmented. The Dyadic Interactions Affecting Dyadic Sexual Desire (DIADICS) model integrates such empirical findings, but the model as a whole has not been empirically tested yet. We conducted an online questionnaire study with 181 mixed-sex couples, to test the model’s assumptions on how sexual desire between partners is influenced by what each of them takes, gives, and receives in relation to their needs for affiliation, sexuality and exploration. Dyadic data analyses guided by the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) revealed that, while all these aspects of partner interactions are associated with dyadic sexual desire, the degree to which one asserts their needs for affiliation and sexuality is the most influential, underscoring partners’ agency in shaping their sexual desire for their partner in a romantic relationship. Moreover, Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) demonstrated that dyadic sexual desire may benefit from different combinations of partner interactions, supporting diversity in couple styles and paths to optimal sexuality. Found gender differences and effects of relationship duration on the associations between partner interactions and dyadic sexual desire offer additional insights on the workings of dyadic sexual desire in romantic relationships.