Mindfulness and Sexual Mindfulness as Moderators Between Conflict Resolution and Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction

Daniel K. Smedley, Chelom E. Leavitt, David B. Allsop, McKenna Nance, Spencer L. James, Erin Kramer Holmes

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mindfulness has shown positive links with conflict resolution. Additionally, couples skilled in conflict resolution report greater sexual and relationship satisfaction. However, no research has examined the moderating effect of mindfulness, specifically sexual mindfulness, between conflict resolution and sexual and relationship satisfaction. We used 1,627 couples from wave III of the Couple Relationships and Transition Experiences (CREATE) study. Sexual mindfulness moderated the association between conflict resolution and sexual satisfaction, even after controlling for attachment. Wives higher in sexual mindful awareness may rely less on conflict resolution for their sexual satisfaction. Karremans and colleagues’ (2017) model of mindfulness and romantic relationships provides a framework for testing whether, when, and how mindfulness increases positive romantic relationship processes and outcomes. Under this framework, mindfulness may provide a mechanism to help couples achieve sexual and relationship satisfaction. Mindfulness and sexual mindfulness may provide a useful mechanism for therapists, educators, social workers, and couples to enhance satisfaction within the romantic and sexual relationship even without partner buy-in.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)814-828
Number of pages15
JournalJournal of Sex and Marital Therapy
Volume47
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - 2021
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology

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