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Early maladaptive schemas and sexual dysfunction in men.
Ana Luísa Quinta Gomes1, Pedro Nobre
1Departamento de Educação e Psicologia, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal. bisagomes@gmail.com
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|October 7, 2011
Summary
Early maladaptive schemas (EMS) are linked to male sexual dysfunction. Men with sexual difficulties show distinct cognitive patterns, particularly related to dependence and incompetence schemas.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sexology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Early maladaptive schemas (EMS) are core cognitive patterns influencing adult functioning.
- Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent issue affecting men's quality of life.
- Understanding the cognitive underpinnings of sexual dysfunction is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between early maladaptive schemas (EMS) and male sexual functioning.
- To identify specific cognitive schemas that differentiate men with and without sexual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 242 men, including a clinical sample with sexual dysfunction and a community sample.
- Assessment of EMS, sexual functioning, psychopathology, and schemas activated in hypothetical sexual situations.
- Statistical analysis to compare cognitive patterns between groups, controlling for psychopathology.
Main Results:
- Men with sexual dysfunction exhibited higher levels of dependence/incompetence EMS compared to sexually healthy men.
- Participants with sexual difficulties activated more difference, helpless, and incompetence schemas in hypothetical scenarios.
- These findings held true even after controlling for general psychopathology.
Conclusions:
- A distinct cognitive pattern characterized by specific early maladaptive schemas is associated with male sexual dysfunction.
- These cognitive structures play a significant role in the development and maintenance of sexual difficulties in men.
- Targeting these schemas in sex therapy may offer a promising therapeutic avenue.
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