Why do narcissistic individuals engage in sex? Exploring sexual motives as a mediator for sexual satisfaction and function

- Dyadic analysis of narcissism, sexual motives and sexual satisfaction and function
- Narcissism predicted low levels of own sexual satisfaction for both men and women.
- Narcissism was correlated with the need for self-affirmation as a sex motive.

This study examined the relationship between narcissism, sexual motives, and sexual satisfaction from a dyadic perspective. One hundred twenty-eight heterosexual couples (N = 256) completed questionnaires regarding their narcissism, sexual motives, and sexual satisfaction and functioning. Actor-Partner Interdependence Model analyses revealed two actor-effects on men's sexual satisfaction, intimacy during intercourse and orgasmic responsivity and one partner-effect on men's sexual satisfaction and intimacy during intercourse. Self-affirmation was identified as the main motive for engaging in sex for narcissistic individuals. Recommendations for further research and additional clinical implications are discussed.