Sexual Functioning Among a Cohort of Treatment-Seeking Canadian Military Personnel and Veterans With Psychiatric Conditions. Issue 7 (1st July 2015) - McIntyre-Smith, Alexandra
ABSTRACT: Objective: The aim of this study was to assess potential predictors of sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction in a sample of 99 current and former Canadian Forces members attending the Parkwood Hospital Operational Stress Injury Clinic for mental health treatment. Methods: Respondents completed a number of questionnaires assessing sexual functioning, post-traumatic stress disorder symptom severity, health-related quality of life, and self-perceived masculinity traits. Results: Regression analyses revealed that role limitations because of physical problems predicted erectile functioning ( β = 0.107, p = 0.075), whereas vitality predicted orgasmic functioning ( β = 0.044, p = 0.032). Hypermasculinity was the strongest predictor of sexual desire ( β = 0.466, p = 0.036), and sexual satisfaction was significantly predicted by bodily pain ( β = 0.036, p = 0.019). Preliminary analyses revealed a significant mediating effect of bodily pain on the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder symptom severity. Conclusions: Results suggest a nuanced interplay between physical health and mental health factors regarding sexual functioning in treatment-seeking military personnel and veterans; however, further research is needed to better delineate the relationship between the 2.