•  
  •  
 

Abstract

Research has been produced assessing both the concept of Life Satisfaction and the impact of disability. However, there has been a lack of research assessing the intersection of disability, sexuality, and life satisfaction. This study sought to understand the relationship between improved sexual self-concept, life satisfaction, and disability impact. Sexual self-concept was examined as a moderator of the relationship between disability impact and life satisfaction. It was hypothesized that improved sexual self-concept among those living with a disability will have a positive and correlating effect on life satisfaction. Additionally, it was hypothesized that the relationship between disability impact and satisfaction with life would be stronger among those who had higher sexual self-concept ratings. The study consisted of 104 adults with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. Individuals completed the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS), four subscales of the Multidimensional Sexual Self Concept Questionnaire (MSSCQ), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) to assess disability impact, sexual self-concept, and satisfaction with life respectively. Results indicated that higher levels of sexual self-concept were associated with higher life satisfaction rates. Furthermore, the relationship between disability impact and satisfaction with life was stronger among those who had higher sexual self-concept scores. Lastly, via moderation analysis, results indicated the relationship between disability impact and life satisfaction was moderated by sexual self-concept. Thus, there appears a need to cultivate positive sexual self-concept in individuals living with disabilities in an effort to contribute to life satisfaction.

Download

Share

COinS