Sexual Self-Concept: Testing a Hypothetical Model for Men and Women

Abstract

One theoretical concept receiving modest attention in contemporary sex research is the sexual self-concept (SSC). However, a lack of cohesion within this research has culminated in a collection of SSC models which overlap one another but which are not exactly the same. Therefore, a unified conceptual model of SSC needs to be established. In addition, little research has examined potential differences between genders in SSC, as most SSC research has focused on women. Using Buzwell and Rosenthal's 1996 sexual selves model as a theoretical basis, a six-factor higher-order latent SSC model was tested using confirmatory factor analysis. Lower-order factors for this model included multidimensional sexual self-esteem and sexual self-efficacy factors, as well as unidimensional arousal, anxiety, exploration, and commitment factors. A five-factor latent model (after removing the commitment and the resistance sexual self-efficacy factors) was the best-fitting model. This model was then tested for measurement and structural invariance between genders. Results indicated that while the measurement of SSC was similar between men and women, structural invariance did not hold, as men had a significantly higher latent SSC score compared to women. These findings have important implications for sexual self-concept research, as well as contributing to better understanding of human sexuality.

Bio-psycho-social factors affecting sexual self-concept: A systematic review

“…It is the predictor of sexual outcomes (4), and consists of intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects developed along with changes in sexual growth and experiences. The subjective interpretation of others and society, affects the formation and growth of sexual self-concept (1). Sexual self-concept is intricately linked to sexual behaviors and attitudes (27).…”

“…Before school age, sexual knowledge as the gender identity is shaped (12). During the teenage period, sexual self-concept is unstable and is formed when sexual maturity begins to grow (1). Older adolescents compared with younger adolescents have a more positive sexual self-concept.…”

“…Nowadays, researchers and healthcare providers believe that mental and emotional aspects of sexual well-being are the important aspects of sexual health (1). Sexual self-concept is a major component of sexual health (2, 3) and forms the core of people’s sexuality (4).…”

“…However, Sexual self-concept as one of the most important components of the self-concept is less considered (3, 7). Structural sexual self-concept is multi-dimensional and dynamic, which is developed based on the individual’s understanding of his/her personal sexuality (1). It refers to the individual’s positive and negative perceptions as a sexual creature (8, 9).…”

“…It affects the process of sexual behaviors related to social information, and guides sexual behaviors (12, 13). A person’s feelings about oneself as a sexual creature influences his/her sexual experiences (1). The dimensions of structural sexual anxiety, monitoring sexuality, the fear of sexual relationships and sexual depression are the negative aspects of sexual self-concept.…”