Preoedipal factors in relation to psychogenic inhibited sexual desire

This paper builds upon current theoretical and clinical understanding of inhibited sexual desire (ISD). Kaplan's comprehensive book, Disorders of Sexual Desire, is utilized as a basis for a brief overview of the triphasic model of sexual functioning and desire phase disorders. From this model, development of theory regarding the least understood and most "severe" type of ISD (remote psychogenic causation) is presented, as well as therapeutic implications involving such disturbances. Specifically, it is proposed that preoedipal factors and psychic defenses incurred during the pregenital years may play a significant role in the etiology of ISD as well as account for the tenacious resistance to treatment found in this clinical subgroup. In conclusion, a critical analysis and speculative expansion of this model is presented.