Sociology

Review of Related Literature
In Europe and Western countries, sexual satisfaction is considered a fundamental basis for the success of an intimate relationship. Sociologists Susan and Clyde Hendrick (2002) cite several studies that suggest a positive relationship between relationship satisfaction and sexual satisfaction in committed relationships and marriages. Conversely, low levels in sexual satisfaction, particularly in frequency of sex as well as quality of sex, have been found to lead to decreases in marital of relationship satisfaction and even to relationship dissolution. This literature review evaluates studies which have dealt with the examination of whether or not sexual satisfaction in an intimate relationship is significantly associated with overall satisfaction in the relationship.

In a study aimed at determining the role of sexual satisfaction on relationship quality and stability, Sprecher (2002) used a combination of cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis on 101 dating couples. The study was conducted along five time frames, beginning on Fall 1988 with subsequent follow-ups on 1989, 1990, 1991, and 1992. Relationship satisfaction was measured using the 7-item Hendrick Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS).  Sprecher hypothesized that the more sexually satisfied a couple, the more stable the relationship becomes at a later time. The results of the study indicate a positive correlation between a partners sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction, commitment to the relationship, and love for partner. There was no evidence that levels of sexual satisfaction at one time were predictive of changes in relationship satisfaction, commitment, or love among partners. Thus, mere sexual intercourse could not be attributed for increase in love, commitment, or satisfaction. Interestingly, positive correlations between sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction were true for both men and women, but generally stronger for men. Sprecher (2002) also found that women negatively predicted likelihood of breakups with relationship satisfaction but not for sexual satisfaction whereas men negatively predicted likelihood of relationship breakups with sexual satisfaction but not relationship satisfaction.

Other studies have examined the association between relationship satisfaction and sexual satisfaction within the framework of equity. Hatfield et al. (1982) pursued a longitudinal investigation to determine whether married partners who were equitably treated had more sexually fulfilling lives compared to those who were not treated equitably. A final sample of 118 couples participated in two interviews, the second one conducted one year after the first. The study used the Hatfield Global Measure (1978) and  The Austin Measure of Contentment Distress (1974) as primary instruments, as well as an open discussion to allow respondents to add on or clarify their responses. As predicted, equity in marital relationships was shown to be positively correlated with sexual satisfaction. Men and women who were in equitable relationships reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction than those who felt they were underbenefited in the marriage. They also reported being more content, less distressed, and happier with their sexual lives than the latter. Moreover, those who were in equitable relationships had greater frequency of sexual intercourse than those who underbenefited. Attitudes after sexual intercourse of men and women who were in equitable relationships were more loving and close as opposed to angry and distant. Equitably treated respondents felt their partners were sexually satisfied while underbenefited men and women did not.  

In a 2005 longitudinal study, E. Sandra Byers wanted to determine a causal relationship between sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction. Using the Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (IEMSS), Byers concluded that the correlation of sexual intercourse and relationship satisfaction is not limited toward a single direction. Increase or decrease in relationship satisfaction over time cannot be attributed to sexual satisfaction alone. The quality of intimate communication was also important. Poor communicators were more inclined to report low levels of sexual and relationship satisfaction while good communicators were more inclined to report increases.

Summary
The literature reviewed supports the dominant view that sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction are positively correlated. Observed differences on the attitudes and perceptions of men and women regarding sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction were also notable. Moreover, the finding that non-sexual forms of intimacy such as supportive communication are also predicted of relationship satisfaction adds a significant component for consideration in the conceptualization of this study.