Which psychosocial variables affect drive the most? Analysis of sexual desire in a group of Italian men

Literature lacks wide studies on variables affecting sexual desire in men. Aim of this study was to explore the role of some psychosocial variables such as quality of life, sexual function, distress, sexual satisfaction, psychological symptoms, emotions, alexithymia, couple adjustment, sexism, dysfunctional beliefs, cognitive schemas, and modes. A self-administered survey reached 450 heterosexual Italian men (age 31.36 +/- 10.73). Results showed orgasmic function, lack of erotic thoughts, erection concerns thoughts, hostile sexism, and positive affect as the main sexual desire predictors. Depression, premature ejaculation severity, sexual distress, sexual conservatism, and helpless predicted in minor manner sexual desire levels. Analyzed variables could represent key factors in the assessment and therapy of sexual desire problems.