The nature and treatment of inhibited sexual desire

honors thesisCollege of Social & Behavioral SciencePsychologyTimothy W. SmithRaymond P. KesnerThe incidence of inhibited sexual desire appears to be increasing both as a therapeutic issue and as the focus of current clinical research. Researchers are concerned with problems related to sexual interactions because they tend to influence marital relationships either positively or negatively. Persons experiencing problems with sexual functioning, especially inhibited sexual desire, generally report deleterious effects across several domains of their interpersonal relationships. Inhibited sexual desire is a relevant and complicated sexual dysfunction posing problems both in its initial assessment and its subsequent treatment. Numerous etiological factors for the onset of ISO are noted ranging from psychological processes and social issues to organic factors or medical conditions. This paper reviews the biopyschosocial approach to the etiology and treatment of inhibited sexual desire, with a focus on stress, and provides a framework in which a more interactional approach to diagnosis and treatment can be considered. A more integrative approach to current models opens new avenues for approaching sexual dysfunction in therapy and research environments. I feel a great sense of relief now that I have come to closure on this project. It has been both frustrating and eXhilarating. Frustrating, because my fascination with the topic would not allow me to focus within manageable guidelines, and exhilarating because of the exposure to a fascinating array of research articles and theories. A project of this magnitude does not develop without the support of many people and this paper is no exception. I wish to thank family and friends who offered their moral support. A debt of gratitude is owed to Tim Smith, Ph.D. who patiently reviewed, edited and provided feedback on numerous rough drafts of this project. I am grateful to my two children, Taylor John and Brooke Michelle, who to the best of their ability, were understanding of my need to isolate at the computer rather than play with them. And most of all, to my wife Kimberly, who has continued to stand beside me through ten years of marriage, and this paper, providing support and encouragement