Prediction of sexual desire based on emotional self-regulation, experiential avoidance, and depressive symptoms in female teachers

Introduction: A normal sexual desire plays an important role in marital stability; therefore, it is essential to identify factors affecting it. Aim: The present study aimed to predict sexual desire based on emotional self-regulation, experiential avoidance, and depressive symptoms in female teachers in Bafq, Iran. Method: In this descriptive-correlational study, the statistical population consisted of 225 female teachers, who taught the second grade of high school in Bafq, Iran, during the academic year 2021-2022. Finally, 130 samples were selected from the statistical population via convenience sampling. The data collection tools included the Halbert Index of Sexual Desire (1991), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire by John and Gross (2003), Multidimensional Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (2011), and Beck's Depression Inventory (1961). Data analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation coefficient test and multiple regression analysis in SPSS Version 26. Results: The results showed a significant positive relationship between cognitive reappraisal and sexual desire. On the other hand, sexual desire had a significant negative relationship with procrastination, suppression/denial, distress tolerance, experiential avoidance, and depression (P<0.01). Moreover, the results of regression analysis revealed that depression, cognitive reappraisal, and procrastination could predict sexual desire (coefficients: 0.25, 0.26, and 0.24, respectively). Conclusion: The present results showed that emotional self-regulation, experiential avoidance, and depression were influential factors in sexual desire. Therefore, appropriate methods should be implemented to improve the teachers emotional self-regulation, experiential avoidance, and depressive symptoms in order to increase their sexual drive.