Sexual Congruence Moderates the Associations of Hypersexual Behavior with Spiritual Struggle and Sexual Self-Concept

Emerging adulthood is a period of development characterized by the maturation of more complex sexual and religious/spiritual (r/s) identities. In some cases, r/s may enhance positive sexual experiences; however, r/s may also exacerbate problems that result from sexual difficulties. In the current study, a cross-sectional survey was administered to university students (N = 295) to test whether the associations of hypersexual behavior with spiritual struggle and with sexual self-concept would differ based on sexual congruence. We found that the associations of hypersexual behavior with sexual anxiety and with some facets of spiritual struggle were more strongly positive among participants who perceived their sexual values and behaviors as incongruent. Also, the association between hypersexual behavior and sexual esteem was more strongly negative among those who perceived their sexual values and behaviors as incongruent. We discuss implications for future examinations of the intersectionality of sexuality, religiousness, and spirituality.