Glossary / Lexicon

Sexual Disorder

Deutsch: Sexuelle Störung / Español: Trastorno Sexual / Português: Transtorno Sexual / Français: Trouble Sexuel / Italiano: Disturbo Sessuale

Sexual disorder in psychology refers to a condition characterized by significant disturbances in a person's ability to respond sexually or experience sexual pleasure. These disorders can affect sexual desire, arousal, or performance and often result in distress or interpersonal difficulties.

Description

In the context of psychology, sexual disorders encompass a range of conditions that impair sexual function and satisfaction. They are typically classified into several categories:

  • Sexual Desire Disorders: Problems related to a lack of sexual desire or interest.

    • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Persistently low or absent sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity.
    • Sexual Aversion Disorder: Extreme aversion to and avoidance of genital sexual contact.

  • Sexual Arousal Disorders: Difficulties with physical arousal.

    • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder: Inability to attain or maintain adequate lubrication-swelling response during sexual activity.
    • Erectile Disorder (ED): Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual performance.

  • Orgasmic Disorders: Problems related to the timing or intensity of orgasm.

    • Female Orgasmic Disorder: Delay or absence of orgasm following a normal sexual excitement phase.
    • Delayed Ejaculation: Marked delay or inability to achieve ejaculation.
    • Premature Ejaculation: Ejaculation occurring with minimal sexual stimulation before, on, or shortly after penetration.

  • Sexual Pain Disorders: Pain associated with sexual activity.

    • Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Difficulties with vaginal penetration during intercourse, marked pain, or fear/anxiety about pain in anticipation of, during, or as a result of vaginal penetration.

Sexual disorders can arise from a variety of factors, including psychological issues (such as anxiety, depression, and trauma), physical conditions (such as hormonal imbalances, chronic illnesses, and neurological conditions), and relational factors (such as communication problems, stress, and relationship conflicts).

Special Considerations

Effective diagnosis and treatment of sexual disorders require a comprehensive assessment that includes medical, psychological, and relational factors. Cultural and societal attitudes towards sexuality can also influence the presentation and treatment of these disorders. It's important for clinicians to approach these issues with sensitivity and without judgment.

Application Areas

  • Clinical Psychology: Assessment and treatment of psychological factors contributing to sexual disorders.
  • Sex Therapy: Specialized therapy focusing on sexual function and satisfaction.
  • Couples Therapy: Addressing relational factors that may contribute to sexual disorders.
  • Medical Fields: Collaborative work with healthcare providers to address physical causes of sexual disorders.
  • Research: Studying the prevalence, causes, and effective treatments for sexual disorders.

Well-Known Examples

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Used to address negative thought patterns and behaviors related to sexual function.
  • Sensate Focus Exercises: A therapeutic technique designed to reduce performance anxiety and increase sexual intimacy between partners.
  • Medication: Such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil) for erectile dysfunction or hormonal treatments for desire disorders.
  • Psychoeducation: Providing information and education about sexual function and health to individuals and couples.

Treatment and Risks

Treatment for sexual disorders often involves a combination of psychological therapy, medical intervention, and relational counseling. Risks of untreated sexual disorders include persistent distress, relationship problems, and reduced quality of life. Early intervention can lead to significant improvements in sexual satisfaction and overall well-being.

Examples of Sentences

  1. "The therapist specialized in treating sexual disorders and provided a safe space for clients to discuss their concerns."
  2. "Couples therapy helped them address the relational issues contributing to their sexual disorder."
  3. "Medications and psychological interventions are often combined to effectively treat sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction and hypoactive sexual desire disorder."

Similar Terms

  • Sexual Dysfunction: A broader term that includes any disturbance in sexual desire, arousal, or performance.
  • Psychosexual Disorder: Disorders related to psychological aspects of sexual functioning.
  • Paraphilic Disorders: Conditions involving atypical sexual interests that cause distress or harm.
  • Intimacy Issues: Problems related to emotional closeness and connection in relationships, often affecting sexual satisfaction.

Articles with 'Sexual Disorder' in the title

  • Psychosexual Disorder: Psychosexual Disorder refers to sexual disorders which are assumed to be due to psychological factors. The Symptoms Of Psychosexual Disorders are: Patient unable to experience sexual arousal in normal conditions with adult members of the . . .

Summary

Sexual disorders in psychology refer to conditions that impair sexual function and satisfaction, encompassing issues with desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain. These disorders can result from a combination of psychological, physical, and relational factors. Effective treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including psychological therapy, medical intervention, and relational counseling. Addressing sexual disorders is crucial for improving quality of life and overall well-being.

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