Behavioral assessment of couples' communication in female orgasmic disorder

Communication problems are believed to play a central role in many sexual dysfunctions. The present study behaviorally assessed communication patterns within heterosexual couples in which the woman was experiencing female orgasmic disorder and within two groups of control couples. The sexually dysfunctional couples evidenced significantly poorer communication than controls, primarily but not exclusively when discussing sexual topics. Specifically, women with orgasmic disorder or their male partners demonstrated more blame and less receptivity. We discuss the etiologic and treatment implications of these findings.