Sexual Narcissism among Men with Sexual Dysfunctions: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Objective: Previous studies have associated sexual narcissism with aggressive behaviours prevalent among most Cluster B populations. Recent evidence shows that certain characteristics of sexual narcissism could be beneficial for sexual and marital satisfaction. The present study is an exploration of the role of narcissism in Sexual dysfunctions. Method: A cross-sectional design involving a sample of 62 men aged 22-60 years was used for the study. The sample consisted of 31 men having sexual dysfunctions and a matched control group of 31 men free from sexual dysfunctions. Tools used were the International Index for Erectile Functioning, Modified MINI, Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire, Sexual Narcissism Scale, and Questionnaire for Cognitive Schema Activation in Sexual Context. Scores were subjected to discriminant analysis, and relevant variables were correlated to assess the strength of the association. Results: Results indicated that beliefs about Female Sexual Power (FSP), Helplessness Schema, and Exploitative behaviours of Sexual Narcissism were the best predictors that differentiated the two groups. The higher the scores on these variables, the lower the erectile functioning. FSP shared a positive correlation with both Exploitation and Helplessness, while the latter two variables were unrelated. Conclusions: A higher need to stick to traditional gender roles and fear of being overpowered could be contributing to sexually exploitative behaviours and relationship distress, which in turn, could affect self-efficacy and contribute to Sexual dysfunction.

Keywords

• sexual narcissism
• dysfunctional beliefs
• sexual schemas
• sexual dysfunction