The role of sensuality, imagination, and curiosity in high and optimal sexual satisfaction

Abstract

The central purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between certain personal qualities with high and optimal sexual satisfaction. There is a breadth of research on sexual function and dysfunction and several studies on sexual satisfaction. However, very little research exists on what kind of qualities are likely to lead to optimal sexual experiences, and to my knowledge this is the first quantitative study on the topic. The author selected three key qualities–sensuality, imagination, and curiosity—to examine how they relate to high and optimal sexual satisfaction. Because the literature has shown strong support of the positive relationship between sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction, participants were divided into two groups – those judged to be in secure relationships versus those in insecure relationships. A large sample of people (N = 195) completed an online survey composed of five measures. Results indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between sensuality, imagination, and curiosity with sexual satisfaction—but only among individuals in a secure relationship. Results indicate a statistically significant positive correlation of sensuality and imagination among those with optimal sexual satisfaction. In conclusion, implications are discussed, including strengths and limitations of the study, suggestions for sex therapists and sex educators, and recommendations for future research.

Keywords:

• Curiosity
• mindfulness
• optimal sexual experiences
• sensuality
• sexual satisfaction

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Notes

1 Previous research as examined the relationship of personality (using the Five Factor Model) and sexual satisfaction. Of the variables measured in the present study, curiosity and imagination have shown to correlate with Openness to Experience. Previous research has found that individuals who score high on Openness tend to report higher levels of sexual satisfaction (Donnellan, Conger, & Bryant, 2004; Allen & Walter, 2018; Meltzer & McNulty, 2016). This being said, I intentionally used language such as “’personal’ or ‘individual’ qualities” because the variables I measured do have some important distinctions with those that are part of The Big Five Dimensions of Personality.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Emily Jamea

Emily Jamea, PhD is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. She runs a private practice in Houston, TX and continues to research and write about optimal sexual experiences. I would like to thank my research assistant and editor, Leah McCaskill for her support through the research and writing process.