Does sexual function and satisfaction offset declines in physical and mental health with ageing?

Sexual health and satisfaction throughout the life course are increasingly recognised as key elements of overall positive health and quality-of-life. Recent data support the view that an increasing proportion of people remain sexually active in later life, with sexual activity and satisfaction positively correlated with physical health and negatively correlated with depression, independent of age. Given that the stereotypical concept of an ‘asexual’ old age is now being progressively challenged, research interest is turning to understanding the value and importance of sexual relationships in later life.

Although there are numerous studies linking specific sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction, with unfavourable physical and psychological health outcomes, far less is known about how human sexuality is linked to indices of positive affect or happiness, i.e. emotional well-being. Whilst the implicit assumption is that a ‘better-quality’ sex life would be associated with higher levels of emotional well-being, empirical data supporting this assertion remains lacking.

The main objective of this PhD project is to explore how sexual function and satisfaction interrelate with physical health, emotional wellbeing and quality-of-life during middle and older age. Data will be available from two prospective observational studies of ageing to examine the central hypothesis that higher levels of sexual health are associated with enhanced physical and emotional well-being and improved quality-of-life, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Traditional statistical approaches will be supplemented with innovative methods to handle missing data, longitudinal data and data from different national contexts.

This 4-year studentship provides full support for tuition fees, all associated research costs and an annual tax-free stipend at minimum Research Council rates (£13, 590 in 2011). The project is due to commence October 2012 and is open to UK/EU nationals only due to the nature of the funding.

The successful candidate will benefit from extensive training in epidemiological methods, biostatistics and longitudinal data analyses and interpretation. Previous PhD graduates from our group have progressed into prestigious postdoctoral positions within health service research involving interventional studies.

Applicants should hold a minimum upper-second honours degree (or equivalent) in the biological/medical sciences, social sciences, psychology, epidemiology or a related area. A Masters in a similar field and previous experience of data analysis or epidemiological methods would be an advantage.

Please direct applications in the following format to Dr Neil Pendleton ([Email Address Removed]):

• Academic CV
• Official academic transcripts
• Contact details for two suitable referees
• A personal statement (750 words maximum) outlining your suitability for the study, what you hope to achieve from the PhD and your research experience to date.

Any enquiries relating to the project and/or suitability should be directed to Dr Pendleton at the address above. Applications are invited up to and including Tuesday 6 March 2012.

http://www.medicine.manchester.ac.uk/staff/77478
http://www.medicine.manchester.ac.uk/mentalhealth/