Use and misuse of behavioral homework exercises in sex therapy

This paper examines uses of sexual exercises and their role in effecting changes in attitudes, behaviors, and feelings. In reaction to the charge that exercises are overly mechanistic, clinicians now underutilize exercises and/or give only general suggestions. The common errors of nonspecificity, use as a cookbook, quick abandonment, and setting performance criterion are discussed. The use of semistructured, written exercises which function as in vivo desensitization, facilitate development of verbal and stimulation skills, and provide a positive model of sexuality are most efficacious. A case example illustrating the multiple therapeutic benefits of exercises is presented.