Multidimensional Perfectionism and Sexual Difficulties Among Adult Couples: A Dyadic Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Study

The multidimensional model of perfectionism includes three dimensions: Self-oriented perfectionism (SOP), other-oriented perfectionism (OOP), and socially prescribed perfectionism (SPP). Although previous research has identified significant cross-sectional associations between perfectionism and sexual function, these studies predominantly focused on women without examining the links between the different dimensions of perfectionism and various indicators of sexual difficulties among both members of a couple. This study aimed to address this gap by examining the dyadic associations between perfectionism dimensions, sexual function, partner-focused sexual desire, and sexual distress, both cross-sectionally (T1) and longitudinally (T2) over one year. The secondary aim of the study was to explore the moderating role of gender on these associations. A sample of 308 cohabiting adult couples completed online questionnaires assessing participants' three dimensions of perfectionism, partner-focused sexual desire, sexual function and sexual distress. Path analyses using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) revealed that SOP was positively associated with individuals' own partner-focused sexual desire at T1 and T2. In contrast, SPP was negatively associated with individuals' own sexual function at T1 and positively associated with their own sexual distress at T1 and T2. A moderation analysis revealed that men's SPP was related to their partner's higher sexual distress at T1. The results underscore the importance of considering perfectionism dimensions in clinical assessments and interventions for couples experiencing sexual difficulties and problematic perfectionist behaviors.