An examination of the mediating and moderating role of sexual satisfaction in the relationship between marital adjustment and marital conflict among married couples

In this study, the mediating and moderating roles of sexual satisfaction in the relationship between marital adjustment and conflict resolution styles in marriage were examined. The research was conducted using a relational survey model. The sample consisted of 285 married individuals selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale (RDAS), Romantic Partner Conflict Scale (RPCS), and the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS).To analyze differences between demographic variables and research variables, a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted. For variables showing significant differences, Post-Hoc tests were used. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was applied to examine the mediating role of sexual satisfaction in the relationship between marital adjustment and conflict resolution styles. To assess the moderating role of sexual satisfaction, Hierarchical Regression Analysis was employed. The analyses revealed that marital adjustment, conflict resolution styles, and sexual satisfaction significantly differed according to age, duration of marriage, and parental status. Mediation analyses indicated that sexual satisfaction had a full mediating role in the relationship between marital adjustment and the submission conflict resolution style. It was found that the other conflict resolution styles did not serve a mediating role. Moderation analyses showed that sexual satisfaction had a moderating effect on the relationships between marital adjustment and the compromise, avoidance, and interactive reactivity conflict resolution styles. It was found that the other conflict resolution styles did not serve a moderating roleThe findings of the study are largely consistent with the relevant literature and have been discussed in light of previous research. Following the evaluation of the research findings, several recommendations were made for both practitioners and future researchers. Key words: marital adjustment, marital conflict, sexual satisfaction.