ATTRACTION TO RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION: MEDIATING ROLE OF SEXUAL SATISFACTION AMONG INDIAN YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

Background- Relationship satisfaction is important for overall well-being, particularly during young adulthood when individuals indulge in intimacy, commitment, and long-term partnerships. Among the many factors that contribute to the quality of romantic relationships, sexual satisfaction and physical attraction are often highlighted as important. Yet in the Indian sociocultural context, romantic relationships are not as openly discussed as in the West.

Purpose- The study aims to examine the mediating role of sexual satisfaction in the relationship between physical attraction and relationship satisfaction in the young adult population of India.

Methods- The study employed a correlational research design. Using purposive sampling, data was collected from 193 individuals between 18 and 29 years of age who were currently in a romantic relationship. Participants completed the Physical Attraction Scale, the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale-Short Form, and the Relationship Assessment Scale.

Results- The results demonstrated a significant partial mediation effect of sexual satisfaction in the relationship between physical attraction and relationship satisfaction. The total effect of physical attraction on relationship satisfaction was significant (β = 0.61, p < .001). The indirect effect was also significant (a × b = 0.18), as indicated by the bootstrapped 95% confidence interval (0.096–0.277), confirming the partial mediating role of sexual satisfaction.

Conclusion- Findings suggest that while physical attraction directly enhances relationship satisfaction, sexual satisfaction plays a meaningful partial mediating role. It offers deeper insight into the dynamics of young adult romantic relationships in the Indian context. The results imply that interventions aimed at improving relationship quality may benefit from addressing both relational and sexual dimensions of young adult partnerships.