The Relationship Between Misophonia and Risky Sexual Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Childhood Trauma in Individuals with Psychopathic Traits

Abstract

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationship between misophonia and risky sexual behaviors and the mediating role of childhood trauma in this relationship among individuals with psychopathic traits. A descriptive-correlational design using path analysis was employed. The statistical population consisted of individuals with psychopathic traits or a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder identified in 2025-2026 through psychiatric centers, psychology clinics, counseling centers, and Qazvin Central Prison. Using purposive sampling, 240 participants (67 women, 173 men) were selected. Instruments included the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (Bernstein et al., 2003), the Risky Sexual Behavior Questionnaire (Zarei et al., 2010), and the Amsterdam Misophonia Scale (Schroeder et al., 2013). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and path analysis in Amos. Results showed that misophonia had a significant direct positive effect on risky sexual behaviors (beta=0.323, p<0.01), a significant positive relationship with childhood trauma (beta=0.463, p<0.01), and a significant indirect effect on risky sexual behaviors through childhood trauma (beta=0.129, p<0.01). Accordingly, childhood trauma partially mediates the relationship between misophonia and risky sexual behaviors in individuals with psychopathic traits. Findings highlight the need to simultaneously address sensory-emotional sensitivities and childhood traumatic experiences when designing preventive and therapeutic interventions for this vulnerable population.