Sextual Relationships: Is Sexting a Relationship Enhancer in Intimate Partner Relationships?

ABSTRACT Introduction Humans have expressed erotic desires with written words for millennia, and sexting has become one of the newest ways of expressing these desires. A few scholars have investigated the association between sexting and satisfaction within a relationship, and this study seeks to add to the ongoing literature. Previous studies have demonstrated a significant relationship between sexting and relationship/sexual satisfaction. Objective Sexting and attachment styles have also been studied showing that each attachment style utilizes sexting in different ways. This study examined relationships between sexting and (a) sexual satisfaction, (b) relationship satisfaction, (c) sexual communication, and (d) general communication. Methods A convenience sample of 465 adults completed an anonymous online survey discussing their intimate partner relationship. Results This study found that the frequency of sexting had a positive association with all relationship outcomes. It was also found that individuals who were more securely attached sexted less frequently. Whereas higher levels of sexual communication and general communication predicted higher sexting frequency. Conclusions This study explored the positive impact sexting can have on these important relationship constructs. This research provides clinicians and educators alike with reliable data that can assist them with informing adult clients on ways they can utilize sexting in a meaningful and positive way. Disclosure No