Sexual Compatibility and Sexual Functioning in Intimate Relationships‪.‬

ABSTRACT: Sexual compatibility is an important element shaping the sexual functioning of an intimate relationship. In this study we expected that levels of sexual compatibility between partners would be related to differential levels of sexual functioning in intimate relationships, but that this relation might differ for men and women. Fifty-eight heterosexual couples responded to self-report measures of sexual functioning (satisfaction, depression, and anxiety), and perceived sexual compatibility. The results indicate that the relationship between an individual's perception of their compatibility with their partner and sexual depression and anxiety was stronger for women than men. In addition, the partner's perception of compatibility predicted sexual depression and anxiety for men but not women. For both men and women, an individual's perception and their partner's perception of compatibility were predictive of sexual satisfaction. This pattern of association between sexual compatibility and sexual functioning has implications for couples presenting with sexual concerns in therapy. Key words: Sexual compatibility Sexual satisfaction Sexual depression Sexual anxiety Gender differences