ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines one such set of cognitive procedures: self-management techniques for ameliorating sexual dysfunctions. Presenting problems successfully remediated have included ejaculatory and erectile failure, primary and secondary orgasmic dysfunciton, vaginismus, and inadequate sexual response patterns. Intervention was delivered in four phases by a male social worker with extensive clinical and research experience in human sexuality. Modeling may take the form of worker self-disclosure and sharing the negative statements of others who have experienced sexual distress. Specific techniques include asking clients to close their eyes, reconstruct a recent sexual behavior sequence, and verbalize accompanying self-statements. Individuals are reinforced for positive self-statements and learn to recognize these as erotic stimuli. During sexual activity, statements become part of the sexual behavioral repertoire. The case material presented in the chapter illustrates cognitive management of sexual dysfunction. Research needs to examine the extent to which such arousing and positive cognitions are present in sexually well functioning individuals.
