These 2 tools investigate the sexual activity and satisfaction of individuals with SCI. SIAS covers sexual desire, sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction (Kreuter et al. 1994a; 1994b). The SAS covers sexual activity and sexual satisfaction (Kreuter et al. 1996).

Number of items: SIAS - 6 items; SAS – 3 items

Procedure/Administration: Both scales are self-report but may be administered in interview format if required. 

How scored: The response items can be summed without weights or standardization. Higher scores indicate greater sexual activity and satisfaction. For mean values for normative comparisons consult Kreuter et al. (1994a; 1994b) for the SAIS and Kreuter et al. (1996) for the SAS.

Interpretability: There are no consistent definitions or classifications for the results detailed within the paper that developed SAS (Kreuter et al. 1996). For mean values for normative comparisons consult Kreuter et al. (1994a; 1994b) for the SAIS and Kreuter et al. (1996) for the SAS.

Acceptability: These tools are two of the better researched measures within the area of sexual interest and satisfaction: There is strong psychometric support for the scales.

Languages: English

Usability: Some items may contain content that is culturally sensitive. There is relatively no staff burden due to the short length of this measure

Time to administer: The scales take between 1-2 minutes to complete

Time to score: N/a

Training required: No special training is required to score or administer the scales.

Availability: The tools may be found in Kreuter et al. (1994,1996)

Equipment required: N/a

Summary:

• Detailed explanation of the purpose of the scale modification is not provided in the literature.
• Both of these tools may be clinically useful to assist in understanding, describing and quantifying the sexual activity and satisfaction of individuals with SCI (both tetra and paraplegia).
• Ultimately, these tools may also be effective in evaluating the effectiveness of sex specific interventions.

Psychometric Summary:

Note: TR= Test re-test; IC= Internal Consistency;Inter-O=Inter-observer; Intra-O=Intra-observer; SS=Sensitivity/Specificity.

Red light= A single study involving SCI subjects which has less than adequate findings of reliability, validity, and/or responsiveness.

Yellow light= A single study involving subjects with SCI which has adequate to excellent findings of reliability, validity, and/or responsiveness.

Green light= At least 2 studies involving subjects with SCI which have adequate to excellent findings of reliability, validity, and/or responsiveness.

N/a= No information.

References

• Kreuter M, Sullivan M, Siosteen A. Sexual adjustment and quality of relationships in spinal paraplegia: A controlled study. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 1996;77:541-548.
• Kreuter M, Sullivan M, Siosteen A. Sexual adjustment after spinal cord injury (SCI) focusing on partner experiences. Paraplegia 1994; 32:225-235.
• Kreuter M, Sullivan M, Siosteen A. Sexual adjustment after spinal cord injury (SCI) -comparison of partner experiences in pre- and postinjury relationships. Paraplegia 1994;32:759-770.