Psychosocial Variables of Sexual Satisfaction in Chile

This study analyzed psychosocial variables of sexual satisfaction in Chile using data from the COSECON survey. Participants were 5,407 subjects (2,244 min and 3,163 women, aged 18–69 years). We used a cross-sectional questionnaire with a national probability sample. Data were collected using a thorough sexual behavior questionnaire consisting of 190 face-to-face questions and 24 self-reported questions. A single item included in the COSECON questionnaire assessed sexual satisfaction. Results showed that high education level, marital status, and high socioeconomic levels were associated with sexual satisfaction in women but not in men. The results also showed important gender differences and sustain the idea that sexuality changes may be more present in middle and high social classes. The proximal variables typically used for measuring sexual satisfaction, such as the frequency of sexual intercourse and orgasm, showed a positive but smaller association with sexual satisfaction. Other important variables related to sexual satisfaction were being in love with the partner and having a steady partner. The results confirmed previous findings and are discussed in the frame of approaches like the exchange, equity, and sexual scripts theories.

The complete version of this study is the author's unpublished doctoral dissertation: “La satisfacción sexual en Chile desde una perspectiva psicosocial.” Thanks to Osmo Kontula from Vaestoliitto, Helsinki, Finland, and to Michel Bozon from INED, Paris, France, for their comments and suggestions. The COSECON (Comportamiento Sexual del Cono Sur) study was conducted in Chile by CONASIDA (Comision Nacional del Sida), and we used it for this study. We thank Anabella Arrendondo from CONASIDA. Finally, this research was supported by a Mideplan grant, Chile, and the final version of this work was supported by INED, Paris, France.