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Psychoaffective differences between sexually functional and dysfunctional men in response to a sexual experience
David L Rowland1, Victoria L Georgoff, Arthur L Burnett
1Valparaiso University-Graduate School, Valparaiso, IN 46383-6493, USA. david.rowland@valpo.edu
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|July 22, 2010
Summary
Sexually dysfunctional men report more negative emotions during partnered sex compared to functional men. These feelings are linked to sexual performance, not general health, highlighting the need for emotional support in treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Urology
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Anxiety and depression are known contributors to sexual dysfunction.
- Limited research exists on other emotional states in sexual dysfunction.
- This study explores affective responses in functional versus dysfunctional males.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify differences in self-reported emotions between sexually functional and dysfunctional men.
- To investigate affective responses during partnered sexual activity.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-nine men with sexual problems and 16 with other urological issues participated.
- Participants rated 28 affective descriptors post-sexual experience.
- Principal components analysis identified underlying positive and negative affect factors.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in affective responses were observed between groups.
- Dysfunctional men reported higher negative affect; functional men reported higher positive affect.
- Differences were specific to sexual performance, not general sexual desire or intimacy value.
Conclusions:
- Emotional well-being is crucial in managing sexual dysfunction.
- Treatment strategies should incorporate psychological and emotional support.
- Addressing negative affect is important for improving sexual function.
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