Sexual Self-Schema Scale Research Articles

The Mediating Role of Sexual Satisfaction and Anger in the Relationship Between Partner-Related Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms and Sexual Self-Schema

Aim: The study was conducted to examine the relationship between partner-related obsessive-compulsive symptoms and sexual self-schemas and to determine the indirect effect of sexual satisfaction and anger on this relationship. Method: The research was conducted with 510 volunteer participants aged 18-50. The participants participated on a voluntary basis and the sample was reached randomly. Personal Information Form, Sexual Self-Schema Scale, The Trait Anger Expression Scale, New Sexual Satisfaction Scale and Partner-Related Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Scale were used to collect the data. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 27 software. Results: The findings of the study revealed that there was a significant negative relationship between obsessive-compulsive symptoms related to the partner and sexual satisfaction and sexual self-schemas, and a significant positive relationship with anger. A positive relationship was found between sexual self-schemas and sexual satisfaction. A significant negative relationship was found between anger and sexual satisfaction and sexual self-schemas. Conclusion: As a result of the study, it was found that there was a significant negative relationship between individuals' having obsessive-compulsive symptoms and their sexual self-schemas, and that anger and sexual satisfaction had a significant indirect effect on this relationship.

Sex/gender differences in how plurisexual attractions contribute to young adults’ thoughts and feelings about their sexual selves

Purpose Sexual self-schema (SSS) are cognitive frameworks for one’s thoughts and feelings about oneself as a sexual being. These schema interpret and organize sexual information and attitudes, and can guide sexual behavior. This study examined how plurisexual attractions may interact with gender to predict SSS. Materials and methods I surveyed 602 young adults about their gender, patterns of attractions to men, women, and gender non-binary people, and SSS using the validated SSS Scale. Results In this sample, SSS were similar across participants with monosexual vs. plurisexual patterns of attraction. However, a few significant effects emerged. Cisgender women with low attraction to any gender reported significantly lower romantic/passionate self-schema relative to women with at least some attraction to one or more genders. In contrast, cisgender men with exclusively same-gender attractions reported higher open/liberal self-schema relative to men with either exclusively other-­gender or plurisexual attractions. Novel to this study, 22% of participants reported attractions to gender non-binary and gender non-conforming people, and these attractions significantly predicted SSS. Conclusion These findings point to subtle gender differences in how attractions interact with young people’s conceptualization of their sexual selves.

Sexual anxiety mediate relationship between sexual schemas and body image with sexual function in Iranian women.

Sexual function is one of the most critical challenges in human society, especially among women. The problems associated with sexual function are significantly ambiguous in a society like Iran. This study investigated the mediating role of sexual anxiety in relationship between sexual schemas and body image with female sexual function. The research method was correlational and specifically path analysis. The statistical population included women aged 25-45 in Rasht, Iran, 2021. 365 women were selected using Cochran's formula and the convenience sampling method. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women (SSSS), Body Image Scale (BIS), and Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire (MSQ) were used for data collection. For data analysis, SPSS-26 and LISREL 10.2 software were used. Descriptive data analysis showed that mean and standard deviation were for further passionate-romantic schema 22.96 and 4.83, open-direct schema 27.64 and 5.09, embarrassed-conservative 20.93 and 4.61, body image 128.96 and 27.35, sexual anxiety 13.13 and 3.91 and sexual function 49.83 and 8.67. According to the results of path analysis, passionate-romantic (β = 0.51), explicit-comfortable (β = 0.27), shy-conservative (β = -0.59), and body image (β = -0.62) schemas showed a significant relationship with sexual function. Sexual function anxiety as a mediating variable also had a significant role (β = -0.41) in female sexual function. Sexual function anxiety, negative body image, and negative sexual schema negatively affect women's sexual function, and positive sexual schemas and body image positively affect sexual function anxiety.

(078) Assessing Women's Sexual Well-being in the Context of Relationship Status and Nonconsensual Sexual Experience History

Abstract Introduction Being involved in a romantic relationship has consistently been associated with better general well-being and life satisfaction, relational and sexual satisfaction, and sexual function. Research indicates that these relationships also buffer women against negative mental and sexual health outcomes after traumatic experiences. Regardless of quality, the presence of a romantic relationship is associated with better general and sexual outcomes for women. Though it has been well established that romantic relationships are positively associated with better sexual and general well-being for heterosexual individuals, the influence of relationship status on other important indicators of sexual well-being has received significantly less attention. Research has not assessed sexual well-being by self-schemas and sexual excitation and inhibition propensities. Given the associations of sexual schemas and sexual excitation and inhibition with sexual function and satisfaction, these two constructs are important to consider when evaluating sexual well-being for women. Additionally, it is imperative to consider nonconsensual sexual experiences (NSEs) when evaluating women’s sexual well-being as 20% of women in the U.S. experience an NSE in their lifetime. NSEs are known to negatively impact sexual excitation and inhibition, self-schemas, and sexual and general well-being. Objective The current study expands upon existing research on sexual well-being by including measures of excitation and inhibition and sexual schemas as well as considering participants’ NSE history. Filling these gaps in the extant literature could prove important for understanding the combined effects of relationship status and NSE history on women’s sexual well-being. Methods The data for the current study was taken from a larger assessment of female sexuality in February and July of 2016. Data from 1152 women was analyzed in the current study. The women completed assessments of previous consensual and nonconsensual sexual experiences using the Nonconsensual Sexual Experiences Inventory, sexual excitation and inhibition using the Sexual Excitation and Sexual Inhibition Inventory for Women, sexual self-schemas using the Sexual Self-Schema Scale and relationship status. Results The results from an ANOVA and subsequent independent t-test pairwise comparisons indicate significant differences in sexual schemas and excitation and inhibition propensities across various relationship statuses (p values < 0.05). After Bonferroni corrections, there were a few significant findings. Women in married or cohabitating relationships report significantly more conservative/embarrassed sexual self-schemas than single women. Single women with NSE histories also reported significantly lower scores on the “setting” excitation subscale of the SESII-W compared to single women with no NSE histories. Conclusions The results indicate that women conceptualize their sexual schemas and experience facilitators and inhibitors of arousal differently across various relationship statuses. Consistent with previous literature, married and cohabitating women reported more conservative/embarrassed self-schemas. Interestingly, single women with an NSE history reported that sex in novel or public settings was less activating for their sexual arousal than the sexual setting for women with no NSE histories. These findings highlight the importance of considering relationship status and NSE history when examining sexual well-being, sexual self-schemas, and sexual excitation and inhibition. Disclosure No

SAĞLIK HİZMETLERİ MESLEK YÜKSEKOKULU ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN CİNSEL EĞİTİME KARŞI TUTUMLARI VE CİNSEL BENLİK ŞEMALARININ İNCELENMESİ

Aim: This study was conducted to examine the attitudes of health services vocational school students towards sexual education and their sexual self-schemas. Methods: The study, which was in descriptive relationship-seeking design, was completed with 235 students. As data collection tools, Student Information Form, Attitude towards Sex Education Scale and Sexual Self Schema Scale were used. In the evaluation of the data, number, percentage, mean and standard deviation values and t test, ANOVA and pearson correlation tests were applied in independent groups. Results: The average age of the students participating in the research is 21.09±2.09. It was determined that the participants' attitudes towards sexual education scale scores were significantly higher in students who found sexual education important. It was determined that the sexual self-schema scale and all sub-dimensions of the participants were significantly higher in those with high father education level than those with low education level. A weak positive correlation was found between the students' attitudes towards sexual education scale and their sexual self-schema scale scores. Conclusions: As a result of the research, it was determined that the students' attitudes towards sexual education were above the average, and the sexual ego sensual/provocative schema had the highest average. It was observed that students' attitudes towards sexual education were related to their sexual self-schema. Suggestions were made in line with the results.

The effect of sexual self-schemas and sexual embarrassment of nursing students on the attitudes and beliefs of students related to sexual health

AimSexual health needs are one of the holistic care needs. Nurses need to help individuals identify and meet these needs. However, sometimes their perception of sexuality can affect their attitudes towards care. The aim of this study determine the effect of sexual self-schema and sexual embarrassment on attitudes and beliefs related to sexual health in nursing students. BackgroundThe sexual self-schema, which emphasizes the cognitive aspect of sexuality, is defined as cognitive generalizations that a person does for her/his own sexuality. Sexual self-schemas are known to affect individuals' feelings, beliefs and attitudes towards sexuality. Those with a positive sexual self-schema experience less embarrassment and more positive attitudes towards sexuality. Those with a negative sexual self-schema experience more sexual embarrassment. Those who experience sexual embarrassment have an avoidance of sexual interaction and talking about sexual issues. Nurses and student nurses have embarrassed to talk about sexuality with their patients. It is thought that sexual attitudes and beliefs are effective on this situation. DesignThis study was conducted in a cross-sectional descriptive type. Structural equality model was established to test the hypotheses of the research. In the model, the direct effects of the sexual self-schema and the sexual embarrassment on sexual attitudes and beliefs were examined. In addition, the mediating effect of sexual embarrassment between sexual schemas and sexual attitudes and beliefs is also included in the model. MethodsThe study population was the students who attended to and conducted clinical practice at the second, third and fourth study year at a Faculty of Health Sciences. For data collection, the Introductory Information Form which questioned socio-demographic characteristics of individuals, Sexual Self-Schema Scale (SSS), Sexual Embarrassment Scale (SES), and Sexual Attitudes and Beliefs Survey for Sexual Health (SABS) were used. The data were collected online with voluntary participation. ResultsStudents' average scale scores were: SSS: 121.57 ± 21.23, SES: 12.16 ± 5.74 and SABS: 35.62 ± 7.53. It was also found that sexual self-schemas and sexual embarrassment effected sexual attitudes and beliefs. ConclusionIt could be recommended that these results be tested with different studies, that the course content on sexual issues be reviewed be addressed in a broader context.

Effect of early maladaptive schemas and sexual self-schemas in vaginismus

OBJECTIVES: There is not any research about relation between early maladaptive schemas and Sexual self schemas. Our study aims to demonstrate the potential relations between Sexual self schemas and Early maladaptive schemas in the development of vaginismus. METHOD: This study encompassed 43 women who received a diagnosis of vaginismus and 30 who were sexually healthy voluntary women. All participants completed the sociodemographic data form, sexual life information form, Young Schema Scale–Short Form 3 and Sexual Self Schema Scale. RESULTS: Our study revealed that the patients with vaginismus are different from healthy control group regarding early maladaptive schemas. Negativity/pessimism, Approval-seeking/Recognition-seeking, Punitiveness, Vulnerability to harm or illness and Unrelenting standards/Hypercriticalness sub-scales were significantly high in the vaginismus group. A positive correlation was found between the Sensual/Stimulating subscale of the Sexual self-schema scale and the Ýnsufficient Self-control/Self-discipline and Unrelenting standards/Hypercriticalness subscales of the Young schema scale. A positive correlation was also found between the Direct/Outspoken subscale of the Sexual self-schema scale and the Approval-seeking/Recognition-seeking, Ýnsufficient self-control/Self-discipline and Unrelenting standards/Hypercriticalness subscales of the Young schema scale. This study will motivate subsequent studies to achieve more specific results by monitoring post-treatment changes.

Sexual schemas and high-risk sexual behaviors in female students: The mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation

Aims: The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation (CER) strategies in the relationship between sexual schemas and high-risk sexual behaviors (HRSBs). Materials and Methods: In a descriptive-correlational study, a sample of 426 persons were selected from all female students at Islamic Azad University of Shiraz using random cluster sampling during 2018–2019. The research instruments were High-Risk Sexual Behavior Questionnaire, CER Questionnaire, and Sexual Self-Schema Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and LISREL software using structural equation modeling. Results: The findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between sexual schemas with HRSBs and CER. Furthermore, there is a significant relationship between CER and HRSBs. The relationship between sexual schemas and HRSBs was mediated by CER. This model has a good fit for the data. Conclusions: The results indicate the mediating role of CER strategies in the relationship between sexual schemas and HRSBs. Therefore, it seems necessary for specialists, therapists, and planners to consider the role of these variables when working with students, especially in counseling and treatment centers.

Sexual self-schema: a cognitive schema and its relationship to choice of contraceptive method among Polish women

Objectives: The aim of the study was to examine sexual self-schema in women using different methods of contraception.Methods: Women (N = 560) aged 18–55 years were divided into two groups: those who used hormonal contraception (n = 285) and those who used non-hormonal contraception (n = 275). Participants were assessed using the Sexual Self-Schema Scale (SSSS), the Well-Matched Marriage Questionnaire and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and were also asked to fill in a structured questionnaire, giving information on their socioeconomic status, reproductive and medical history, sexual behaviours, psychosexual orientation, sexual experience and type of contraception used.Results: Women in the hormonal group scored lower on romantic, passionate and direct subscales of the SSSS, compared with women in the non-hormonal group. Of the total sample, 35% were classified as positive schematic. Women in the hormonal group were found to be more negative schematic and aschematic as well as less co-schematic compared with women in the non-hormonal group. Furthermore, women in the hormonal group were significantly less religious and perceived their self-evaluated weight to be higher compared with women in the non-hormonal group. Logistic regression revealed that negative schematic (odds ratio [OR] 6.6) and aschematic women (OR 3.7), as well as women with more deliveries (OR 1.6), were more likely to choose hormonal contraception.Conclusion: A sexual self-schema might be a relevant factor affecting the choice of contraceptive method. All women seeking hormonal contraception who are aschematic or negative schematic should consult with a sexual medicine specialist, because those individuals may have more profound reasons underlying their need for this type of contraception.

Sexual Self-Schemas of Croatian University Students: Gender Differences and Links with Sexual Activity

The aim of the study was to investigate sexual self-schemas of Croatian university students in relation to their gender and recent sexual activity. The Sexual Self-Schema Scale was administered to 285 undergraduate students of both genders, and a single question on the presence of sexual partner in the past month was asked. Gender differences were found in all three dimensions of sexual self-schemas, reflecting traditional gender roles. Sexual activity was related to sexual self-schema dimensions of direct/outspoken and reserved/conservative, but not to the dimension of loving/warm, with relationships between recent sexual activity and sexual self-schemas being equal for females and males. The results supported theoretical notions on gender and sexual experience-related differences in sexual self-views, extended previous findings from Western countries and emphasized the importance of sociocultural context of human sexuality. They also contributed to better understanding of sexual self-schemas, especially among men whose sexual cognitions were less frequently investigated than those of women.

284 The Portuguese versions of the women’s and men’s sexual self-schema scales: validity and reliability psychometric properties

The Sexual Self-Schema Scale (SSS) is a self-report measure of sexual self-concept that is available in both female and male versions. Despite the use of these scales for diverse research purposes, studies investigating their psychometric properties in samples from different sociocultural backgrounds are lacking. The aim of the present study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Portuguese versions of the Women’s and Men’s SSS. A total of 627 individuals (338 females and 289 males) participated in this study, which was conducted online. All participants answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and the respective version of the SSS. Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFA) and Exploratory Factor Analyses (EFA) were performed to assess validity of the measures. Internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients. Test-retest reliability was evaluated through the Pearson correlation coefficient. CFAs performed on the original models showed poor fits to the Portuguese data. Thus, EFAs were performed on the Portuguese versions of the SSS and indicated a modified three-factor structure of both men’s and women’s sexual self-schema. Reliability analyses indicated acceptable to good internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the scales, but the original factor structures were not replicated.

Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women-Validation and Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version.

IntroductionThe sexual self-schema is a part of a broader concept of the self that is believed to be crucial for intrapersonal and interpersonal sexual relationships.AimTo develop and perform psychometric validation of the Polish version of the Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women (SSSS-W-PL).Methods561 women 18 to 55 years old were included in the final analysis. Linguistic validation was performed in 4 steps in line with the MAPI Institute guidelines. Convergent validity was calculated using the Pearson r product-moment coefficient between different measures of sexuality (attitudes and experience, behavior, arousal, romantic relationship) and SSSS-W-PL total and factor scores. To test discriminant validity, we applied hierarchical regression analyses predicting the number of lifetime sexual partners, self-rating as a sexual person (1 item, “I feel sexually attractive”; on a 5-point Likert scale), and arousability, with independent variables being extraversion (Ten-Item Personality Inventory), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), and the SSSS-W-PL (total and factor scores).Main Outcomes MeasuresSexual self-schema was measured by the SSSS-W-PL, whereas arousability was measured by the arousal/excitement scale of the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire.ResultsThe mean age of the study population was 29.0 ± 7.6 years. The final scale consisted of 24 adjectives grouped within 4 factors: romantic, passionate, direct, and embarrassed. The 4-factor model accounted for 39% of the variance. The Cronbach α was 0.74 for the SSSS-W-PL total score and 0.61 to 0.84 for individual factors. Test-retest reliability of the scale after 2- to 8-week intervals was 0.87 (95% CI = 0.82–0.86, P < .001). The increment variances were statistically significant and ranged from 3.8% to 11.6%.ConclusionThe analysis showed good psychometric properties and internal validity of the SSSS-W-PL. The SSSS-W-PL might be helpful in consulting and/or providing sexual therapy to gynecologic cancer survivors or women with a history of childhood sexual abuse.Nowosielski K, Jankowski KS, Kowalczyk R, et al. Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women—Validation and Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version. Sex Med 2018;6:131–142.

Developing a Hypnotic Relaxation Intervention to Improve Body Image: A Feasibility Study.

To determine the content, feasibility, and best outcome of a mind-body intervention involving self-directed hypnotic relaxation to target body image. . A five-week, uncontrolled, unblinded feasibility intervention study. . Behavioral therapy offices in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Waco, Texas. . 10 female breast cancer survivors and 1 breast and gynecologic cancer survivor. . Adult women with a history of breast and gynecologic cancer and no major psychiatric history were eligible. The intervention included four face-to-face sessions with a research therapist lasting 40-60 minutes, logged home practice, one telephone check-in call at week 5, and one intervention feedback telephone call to complete the study. Descriptive statistics and paired t-tests were used to test feasibility and content validity. . Stress from body changes as measured by the Impact of Treatment Scale, sexual function as measured by the Female Sexual Function Index, and sexual self-image as measured by the Sexual Self-Schema Scale for women were the variables of interest. . The intervention content was confirmed. Changes in scores from the baseline to week 5 suggested that stress from body changes decreased and sexual self-schema and function improved during the intervention. Nine of the 11 women were satisfied with the intervention, and all 11 indicated that their body image improved. . Hypnotic relaxation therapy shows promise for improving body image and, in doing so, improving sexual health in this population. Additional testing of this intervention is warranted. . Hypnotic relaxation therapy is feasible to improve body image and sexual health in women diagnosed with cancer and may be an important intervention that could be offered by nurses and other behavioral therapists.

Abstract P4-11-06: Feasibility of a non-hormonal vaginal moisturizer in postmenopausal cancer survivors

Abstract Objectives: This is a single-arm prospective longitudinal clinical trial investigating the feasibility of using a non-hormonal hyaluronic acid (HLA) vaginal gel (Hydeal-D) to improve estrogen deprivation vaginal health symptoms in postmenopausal women with a history of hormone receptor-positive cancer. Methods: Preliminary data from an ongoing clinical trial were examined. Demographics, medical information, and clinical assessment from breast cancer patients enrolled on study at baseline (n=23) and at 4-6 weeks (n=18) are presented. Eligible participants included those with a history of breast cancer receiving treatment with an aromatase inhibitor (AI) at the time of enrollment. Furthermore, participants could not have evidence of disease and had to have completed treatment for at least 3 months and no longer than 5 years (excluding AIs). Study participants were instructed to use HLA daily for 2 weeks, then 3 times per week for 12-14 weeks. Study outcomes include: pelvic exam results as recorded on a clinician evaluation form with the Vaginal Assessment Scale (VAS); patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of the Sexual Activity Questionnaire (SAQ), Sexual Self-Schema Scale, and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI); PROMIS sexual function items; and exploratory items. Results: The mean age was 56 years (range, 42-75). Seventy-four percent (17/23) were married or living with a partner. Fifty-seven percent (13/23) reported sexual activity with a partner at baseline, which was 72% (13/18) at 4-6 weeks. On the VAS, 65% (15/23) reported symptoms of severe dryness at baseline and 61% (14/23) reported severe dyspareunia; these reported symptoms decreased to 6% (1/18) and 6% (1/18), respectively, at 4-6 weeks. Vaginal pH scores were greater than 6.5 in 30% (7/23) at baseline; by 4-6 weeks, only 22% (4/18) had a pH in this elevated range. At baseline, 78% (18/23) had minimal moisture and 22% (5/23) had no vaginal moisture seen on exam; by 4-6 weeks, 11% (2/18) had normal moisture and 89% (16/18) had minimal moisture. Pain with pelvic exams declined over time—87% (20/23) had pain at baseline, with 22% (5/23) rating it as severe, and 78% (14/18) had pain at 4-6 weeks, with none of the women rating their pain as severe. Forty-eight percent (11/23) indicated confidence about future sexual activity at baseline, which was 56% (10/18) at 4-6 weeks. Level of concern about sexual/vaginal health was measured on a scale of 0-10, with greatest concern rated as a 9 or 10. Sixty-one percent (14/23) of the women fell into this range at baseline; the percentage decreased to 28% (5/18) at 4-6 weeks. Conclusions: Preliminary findings suggest that an HLA vaginal gel may improve vaginal/sexual health issues and concerns of breast cancer survivors both in their perceived symptoms and on clinical exam; however, further study is needed to examine if these promising trends continue over time and to determine the ideal frequency of product administration. Citation Format: Carter J, Seidel B, Stabile C, Dickler M, Goldfrank D, Baser R, Goldfarb S. Feasibility of a non-hormonal vaginal moisturizer in postmenopausal cancer survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-11-06.

Preliminary Findings on Men's Sexual Self-Schema and Sexual Offending: Differences Between Subtypes of Offenders

Available literature suggests that sexual self-schemas (i.e., cognitive generalizations about sexual aspects of oneself) influence sexual behavior. Nonetheless, there is a lack of research regarding their role in sexual offending. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the men's sexual self-schema dimensions (passionate-loving, powerful-aggressive, and open-minded-liberal) and different types of sexual-offending behavior. A total of 50 rapists, 65 child molesters (21 pedophilic, 44 nonpedophilic), and 51 nonsexual offenders answered the Men's Sexual Self-Schema Scale, the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), and the Socially Desirable Response Set Measure (SDRS-5). Data were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression, controlling for age, school education, psychological distress, and social desirability. Results showed that rapists as well as nonsexual offenders were more likely to hold the powerful-aggressive sexual self-view compared to pedophilic and nonpedophilic child molesters. Overall, findings seem to be consistent with both a sociocultural component of aggression and the general cognitive profile of offenders. If further research corroborates these preliminary findings, sexual self-concept may be integrated into a comprehensive multifactorial approach of offending behavior.

Baseline characteristics and concerns of female cancer patients/survivors seeking treatment at a Female Sexual Medicine Program.

The purpose of this study is to characterize patients seeking treatment at a Female Sexual Medicine and Women's Health Program and examine their sexual/vaginal health issues. Data from clinical assessment forms were extracted from 509 women referred to the Female Sexual Medicine and Women's Health Program during/after cancer treatment. The form consists of a Vaginal Assessment Scale (VAS), vaginal health items, patient-reported outcomes (PROs) (Sexual Activity Questionnaire [SAQ], Sexual Self-Schema Scale [SSS], Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]), and exploratory items. Of 509 patients, 493 (97 %) completed PROs; 253 (50 %) received a pelvic examination. The majority had a history of breast (n = 260, 51 %), gynecologic (n = 184, 36 %), or colorectal/anal (n = 35, 7 %) cancer. Mean age was 51.2 years; 313 (62 %) were married/partnered. Approximately two thirds had elevated vaginal pH scores (5-6.5 [35 %] or 6.5+ [33 %]) and minimal (62 %) or no (5 %) vaginal moisture. Eighty-seven patients (44 %) experienced pain during their exam (23 % mild, 11 % moderate, 1.5 % severe, and 8.5 % not indicated). Fifty-three percent engaged in sexual activity with a partner; only 43 % felt confident about future sexual activity. Ninety-three percent were somewhat to very concerned/worried about sexual function/vaginal health. Approximately half had moderate/severe dryness (n = 133, 51 %) and dyspareunia (n = 120, 46 %). The mean SSS score was 60.7, indicating a slightly positive sexual self-view. However, 93.5 % (n = 429) had an FSFI score <26.55, suggesting sexual dysfunction. At initial consult, women reported vaginal dryness, pain, and sexual dysfunction. For many women, pelvic exams showed elevated vaginal pH, lack of moisture, and discomfort with the exam itself. Future analyses will examine changes over time.

Sexual self-schema and depressive symptoms after prostate cancer

The years following prostate cancer treatment are characterized by changes in sexual functioning and risk for depressive symptoms. Sexual self-schema (SSS) is a cognitive generalization about sexual aspects of the self that are associated with sexual behavior, affect, and the processing of sexually relevant information. This study tested if men's SSS moderates the impact of sexual morbidity on depressive symptoms. Men (N = 66) treated for localized prostate cancer in the preceding 2 years were assessed at T1 and 4 months later (T2). Questionnaires included the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, Sexual Self-schema Scale for Men, Sexual Experience Scale, and Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. Regressions controlled for age, sexual activity, and T1 depressive symptoms revealed no significant effect of SSS on depressive symptoms; however, better sexual functioning was related to fewer depressive symptoms (B = -0.25, p < 0.05). Results showed significant interactions between SSS and sexual outcomes. Among men with high SSS, poor sexual functioning was associated with increased depressive symptoms; loss of sexual function was particularly distressing. There was no significant effect of sexual functioning. Among men with high SSS, there was an inverse relationship between sexual engagement and depressive symptoms. Among men with lower SSS, greater frequency of sexual behavior was associated with increased depressive symptoms. SSS may be an important individual difference in determining the impact of sexual morbidity on psychological adjustment. Men high on SSS are more vulnerable to psychological consequences of lower sexual functioning and less engagement in sexual activities.

Evaluation of a multifaceted vaginal health program in gynecologic cancer patients experiencing sexual dysfunction: A randomized controlled trial

Objectives: To characterize those seeking treatment at a female sexual medicine (FSM) program and examine their sexual/vaginal health issues. The program was established to address the consequences of cancer treatment on vaginal health and sexuality. Methods: A limitedwaiver of authorizationwas obtained to evaluate the FSM Program. Demographic and medical information and FSM clinical assessment forms from 509 new visits were analyzed. The FSM clinical assessment form consists of a clinician evaluation form with the Vaginal Assessment Scale (VAS); patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including the Sexual ActivityQuestionnaire (SAQ), Sexual Self-SchemaScale (SSSS), and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI); and exploratory items. Results: Of the 509 patients, 493 (97%) completed PROs. Due to staff changes, 253 of these women also received pelvic examinations. Most of the women seeking treatment had histories of breast (260 [51%]) or gynecologic (190 [37%]) cancer. Other cancers included colorectal/anal (35 [7%]), skin (20 [4%]), gastric/genitourinary (17 [3%]), andhematologic (17 [3%]). Eighty-one percent of patients weremarried or partnered. The median age was 51.6 years (mean, 51 years). On pelvic examination, approximately two-thirds of patients had elevated vaginal pH scores (5– 6.5 [35%] or 6.5+ [33%]) andminimal (62%) or no (5%) vaginal moisture. Eighty-seven patients (44%) experienced pain during their examinations (25%mild, 12%moderate, 2% severe). Fifty-three percent of patientswere sexually active, but only 43% felt confident about sexual activity. The degree of concern about sexual function/vaginal health was significant, with a mean of 7.9 on a scale of 0 (not at all) to 10 (very much). Approximately half had moderate/severe dryness (133 [51%]) and dyspareunia (120 [46%]) per the VAS. The mean SSSS score was 60.7, indicating a slightly positive sexual self-view. However, 93% (429) had an FSFI score below 26, suggesting sexual dysfunction. Conclusions: At initial consultation, women reported symptoms of vaginal dryness, pain, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic examinations for many women revealed elevated vaginal pH, lack of moisture, and discomfort with the examination itself. Future analyses will examine changes over time. Our goal is to provide information, strategies, and support to improve symptomswhile promoting confidence about sexual/ vaginal health.

Health-Seeking Behaviors and Sexuality in Rectal Cancer Survivors in Taiwan: Associations With Spirituality and Resourcefulness

To examine the relationships between two health-seeking behaviors (HSBs), spirituality and resourcefulness, as well as demographics, cancer-related factors, and sexuality indicators, within the context of Schlotfeldt's health-seeking model in rectal cancer survivors. Secondary analysis, correlational, and cross-sectional. A teaching hospital in southern Taiwan. 120 adults with rectal cancer. Data were collected during face-to-face interviews using the Body-Mind-Spirit Well-Being Inventory-Spirituality scale; Resourcefulness Scale; Sexual Self-Schema Scale (male and female versions); Evaluating and Nurturing Relationship Issues, Communication, Happiness (ENRICH) Couple Scale-Communication; ENRICH Sexual Relationship Scale; International Index of Erectile Function; and the Female Sexual Function Index. Correlational analysis, one-way analyses of variance, and independent sample t tests were used to analyze data. Spirituality, resourcefulness, HSBs, and sexuality. Spirituality and resourcefulness were associated with sexual self-concept and sexual satisfaction in men and women. Spirituality was correlated with resourcefulness. Greater resourcefulness was found in women, as well as in men and women who had higher education and fewer comorbid conditions. Spirituality was not associated with gender, education, or number of comorbid conditions. Neither spirituality nor resourcefulness was associated with age, religion, stage of disease, time since surgery, type of cancer treatment, or sexual function. Resourcefulness and spirituality were associated with the sexuality indicators of satisfaction and self-concept, which may have an impact on the physical and psychological health of adults with rectal cancer. The findings suggest a need to focus on strengthening HSBs through teaching resourcefulness and encouraging spirituality to enhance sexual self-concept and improve sexual satisfaction in this patient group.

Implicit and Explicit Cognitive Sexual Processes in Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Women with a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) exhibit higher rates of sexual dysfunction than nonabused women. Because sexual responses are affected by cognitive processes, this study investigated the implicit and explicit cognitive processing of sexual stimuli in women with a history of CSA. Women with (CSA; N = 34) and without (no history of abuse [NSA]; N = 22) a history of CSA participated in a quasi-experimental study. Implicit processes, described as involuntary or unintentional responses to stimuli, were assessed using the Implicit Association Test (IAT). Explicit processes, described as intentional, voluntary, or effortful processing of sexual stimuli, were assessed through a self-reported questionnaire (Sexual Self-Schema Scale). Results showed initial evidence of between group differences in the cognitive processing of sexual stimuli. Regarding the implicit processes, women in the NSA group showed that sexual pictures were more strongly associated with positive valence (pleasure) than nonsexual pictures. For the CSA group, neutral and sexual pictures were similarly associated with pleasure. Conversely, for both groups, romantic pictures were more strongly associated with positive valence than sexual pictures. Moreover, sexual satisfaction was predicted by both implicit and explicit processes, suggesting that the sexuality of women is affected by both processes independently. These results fit within the larger body of literature suggesting that implicit and explicit processes independently predict different aspects of behavior.