The goal of this dissertation was to examine the associations between commitment, sexual satisfaction, and attachment in women and to explore the mechanisms by which commitment is associated with sexual satisfaction. This study expanded on previous research to determine whether three pro-relationship sexual behaviors (disclosure of own needs, motivation to satisfy partner, and emotional bond experienced after sex) mediated the association between commitment and sexual satisfaction for securely and insecurely attached women. Based on the literature, it was expected that the three pro-sexual relationship behaviors would mediate the relationship between commitment and sexual satisfaction for the securely attached individuals, but not for the insecurely attached individuals.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Wichita State University, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dept. of Psychology