Intimacy in the Midst of Caregiving: Examining Relationship and Sexual Satisfaction of Parents Raising Children with Special Needs

The present study examined relationship and sexual satisfaction of parents of children with special needs. The impact of role differentiation, coping styles, and sexual desire on relationship and sexual satisfaction were measured, as well as the link between relationship and sexual satisfaction of parents (N = 62). Results from the study indicate that several dimensions were significantly correlated with both sexual (e.g., reframing coping strategies and sexual desire) and relationship (e.g., emotional reactivity, reframing coping strategies) satisfaction. Evidence from this study suggests that therapists should be attentive and sensitive to particular issues to help parents of children with special needs improve their relationship and sexual satisfaction.