Conceptualizing sexual wellbeing: a qualitative investigation to inform development of a measure (Natsal-SW)

R. Lewis*, R. Bosó Pérez, K. J. Maxwell, D. Reid, W. Macdowall, C. Bonell, J. D. Fortenberry, C. H. Mercer, P. Sonnenberg, K. R. Mitchell

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Despite increasing scientific and policy interest in sexual wellbeing, it remains poorly conceptualized. Many studies purporting to measure it instead measure related but distinct concepts, such as sexual satisfaction. This lack of conceptual clarity impedes understanding, measuring, and improving sexual wellbeing. We present qualitative research from multi-stage, mixed-methods work to develop a new measure of sexual wellbeing (Natsal-SW) for the fourth British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes & Lifestyles. Literature review and discussion generated a conceptual framework with seven proposed domains: respect, self-esteem, comfort, self-determination, safety and security, forgiveness, and resilience. Semi-structured interviews with 40 adults aged 18–64 then explored whether and how these domains aligned with participants’ own understandings, experiences, and language of sexual wellbeing. Data were analyzed thematically. Participants conceptualized sexual wellbeing as distinct from sexual satisfaction and sexual health and as multidimensional, dynamic, and socially and structurally influenced. All seven proposed domains resonated with accounts of sexual wellbeing as a general construct. The personal salience of different domains and their dimensions varied between individuals (especially by gender and sexual orientation) and fluctuated individually over time. This study clarifies dimensions of domains that participants considered important, providing an empirical basis to inform development of a new measure of sexual wellbeing.

Original languageEnglish
Number of pages19
JournalJournal of Sex Research
Early online date22 Mar 2024
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 22 Mar 2024

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gender Studies
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • General Psychology
  • History and Philosophy of Science

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