The Relationship between Parental Bonding and Sexual Function with the Mediation of Interpersonal Sensitivity

The purpose of this research was to study the relationship between parental bonding and sexual function with mediating role of interpersonal. Current research was a descriptive correlational study. The statistical population consisted of married male and female in Tehran Province Who were married for less than 7 years. The sample group included 293 people (149 women and 144 men) who were selected by available means. Research data was gained by Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI) Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure (IPSM), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Based on multivariable regression analysis, parental bonding and interpersonal sensitivity predict the sexual function. In the components of parental bonding, mother’s care positively predicts both men and women’s sexual function and father’s care negatively predicts men’s sexual function. Male and female sexual function is also negatively predicted by interpersonal sensitivity. Among the aspects of interpersonal sensitivity, fragile self-esteem negatively predicts male sexual function. Path analysis showed that interpersonal sensitivity is not a mediator in the relationship between parental bonding and sexual function. Due to the difference in the number of questions in male and female sexual function index, study of gender role as a moderator was not achieved. Results generally showed the impacts of parental bonding and interpersonal sensitivity on sexual function in adults. Initial relations with parents form the internal represented models of self and others which can be regenerated in interpersonal relations and sexual functions during the adulthood.