[Ethical issues concerning surrogate assisted sex therapy].

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Therapy
• Sex Therapy
• Psychology

Context:

• Sex therapy is fundamentally a couple and behavioral therapy.
• Masters and Johnson pioneered working with surrogate partners to provide therapy to all individuals.
• Surrogate partners offer a mentoring relationship for practicing behavioral methods.

Purpose:

• To explore the complexity and ethical considerations of sex surrogate therapy.
• To identify patient populations who can benefit from this therapeutic modality.
• To detail the therapeutic process involving a three-way team: client, therapist, and surrogate.

Summary:

• Sex surrogate therapy employs a structured, one-on-one mentoring approach for clients lacking social, couple, or intimate skills.
• Key behavioral techniques include gradual progress, task breakdown, feedback, and environmental modification.
• The therapy involves a strict ethical framework with regular meetings between all parties, culminating in the termination of the surrogate relationship.

Impact:

• Provides a pathway for individuals to develop crucial skills for fulfilling sexual and intimate relationships.
• Addresses sexual dysfunction by equipping clients with practical behavioral and interpersonal competencies.
• Highlights the importance of ethical guidelines in therapeutic relationships involving surrogates.