ABSTRACT
Sexual dysfunction, as with any other human-behaviour problem, may be subjected to a detailed behavioural analysis. This enables the practitioner to identify the nature of the presenting dysfunction and the antecedents and consequences that are currently maintaining the problem. The behaviour itself must be understood in terms of the physiological, cognitive and overt behavioural components. The determinants of sexual behaviour, however, are enormously complex and the assessor needs a thorough understanding of the anatomical, physiological, biochemical and psychosocial factors involved. In most instances, clients presenting with sexual difficulties will be involved in a regular relationship with a partner. In such cases, it is important that both persons are involved in the assessment, as the difficulty generally relates to the way in which the couple interact together sexually rather than being any one person's problem. The presence of both members of the partnership has the advantage of maximising the amount of information provided.
