This review encompasses definitions and a theoretical basis for the concept of sexual satisfaction. The review analyses somewhat newer models of sexual satisfaction: the Carpenter et al. (2009) model that differentiates individual, relational and cultural influences on sexual satisfaction, and the ecological model of sexual satisfaction (Henderson et al., 2009) that places determinants of sexual satisfaction into the framework of Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory. Bearing in mind the previously mentioned models, the study will present the results of previously conducted studies on determinants of sexual satisfaction: 1. individual level determinants or the microsystem level (demographic characteristics, sexual dysfunctions, personality traits, sexual attitudes and subjective well-being), 2. interpersonal level determinants or the mesosystem level (relationship characteristics, romantic love, sexual self-disclosure and other sexual aspects of the relationship), 3. exosystem level determinants (social support, pregnancy, parenthood, childhood victimization and family dynamics), and 4. the cultural or macrosystem level (religiosity and political ideology). The final section consists of conclusions and proposals for future research in three directions: 1. measurement, 2. future study aims and issues with respect to current models, and 3. individual vs. dyadic approach to sexual satisfaction.

sexual satisfaction, review, sexual satisfaction determinants