Validity evidences of the Spanish version of the sexual inhibition/sexual excitation scales-short form (SIS/SES-SF)

Abstract

Predictive validity of the Spanish version of the Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form (SIS/SES-SF) was examined. We correlated sexual inhibition and sexual excitation with subjective arousal and genital response during exposure to visual erotic stimuli. A sample of 164 heterosexual young people completed the SIS/SES-SF and the MGH-SFQ. Participants performed an experimental sequence in which a neutral content film and an erotic film were presented. In the meantime, genital response and subjective sexual arousal were evaluated. Results showed significant differences between neutral and sexually explicit films in objective and subjective arousal in both men and women. A significant correlation between SES and subjective arousal was obtained in women Propensity to become aroused explained 18% of the variance of female subjective arousal and 6% of female genital sensations. Sexual inhibition related to the threat of sexual performance failure was able to discriminate difficulties in sexual functioning in both men and women. Finally, there is a need to assess the subjective sexual arousal along with the objective sexual response.