Portraits in Human Sexuality: Sexual Dysfunction and Therapy Part of the Series : Portraits in Human Sexuality

Common Issues in Sex Therapy (02:56)
80 to 90 percent of adults experience some form of sexual dysfunction at some point in their lives. Major dysfunction groups include desire phase disorders, arousal phase disorders, orgasmic phase disorders, and pain disorders.

Female Sexual Response (04:06)
Many people do not realize that clitoral tissue involves much more than the clitoris itself and that less than 30 percent of women achieve orgasm from intercourse alone. Sex therapy improves both male and female understanding of the female body.

Female Anorgasmia (03:47)
Sex therapists educate couples about sexual positions and techniques to improve clitoral stimulation and help women achieve orgasm. Practice and communication play an important role in achieving mutual sexual satisfaction.

Low Sex Drive and Attitudes Towards Sex (03:52)
A married couple talks about how work and parenting demands interfere with their sex life. Sexual atmospheres in childhood can play a role in one's adult attitude towards sex and affection.

What Is Sex Therapy Like? (05:21)
A married couple began participating in sex therapy in order to improve their sexual relationship. Sex therapy for this couple has involved improving communication regarding each other's sexual desires, likes, and dislikes.

Parents as Sexual Role Models (02:37)
After participating in sexual therapy a couple becomes more comfortable demonstrating affection for each other in front of their children and discussing sexuality with their children as they enter puberty.

Importance of Sex in Marriage (02:36)
Developing a strong sense of sexual intimacy gives couples an aspect to their relationship that remains separate from other aspects of life. With the revival of their sexual relationship, a married couple reconnects physically and emotionally.

Male Sexual Problems (03:10)
Male sexual disorders and dysfunctions can sometimes be caused by psychiatric medications. The two most common sexual problems for men are premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.

Common Psychological Reasons for Erectile Dysfunction (02:29)
Gender identity, sexual identity, emotional issues, and infidelity can play a role in psychological causes for sexual dysfunction. While erotica has many uses in sex therapy, pornography of a violent nature does not fit into this category.

Compulsive Versus Addictive Sexual Behavior (03:34)
Compulsive or addictive behaviors result from a dysregulation of ability to control sexual interests. Binge drinking and alcoholism can cause erectile dysfunction and/or decrease sexual inhibitions.

Treatment for Sexual Disorders (01:49)
SSRI medications may be used to adjust high levels of testosterone and decrease overactive sex drives. Some addictive sexual behaviors stem from a history of sexual abuse, in which case therapy should address issues from the past.