[Construction of an explanatory model of female sexual dysfunction].

PURPOSE Although concerns of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) are increasing in Korea, sexual dysfunction related factors are limited in research studies. The aim of this study was to develop an explanatory model that will further explain the continuously increasing female sexual dysfunction cases in Korea. METHODS Survey visits were conducted to four hundred and eighty five women, over 25 years of age and presently residing in either urban or rural areas. All of them were analyzed using a structured questionnaire. A total of 8 instruments were used in this model. The analysis of data was done with both SPSS WIN for descriptive statistics and AMOS 5.0 for covariance structure analysis. RESULTS As a result, variables that showed notably direct effects on FSD were: sexual concept (sexual attitude), sexual distress, and psychosocial health (depression, crisis, traumatic life events). On the other hand, variables such as age, educational level, economic status, and marital status showed indirect influences on health-promoting behaviors. CONCLUSION By comprehensively addressing the factors related to sexual dysfunction, and comparing each influence, this study can contribute to designing an appropriate sexual dysfunction prevention strategy in tune with the particular characteristics and problems of a client.