Group treatment of single males with erectile dysfunction

Nine men with chronic erectile dysfunction (three primary, six secondary) who had no regular sexual partner were treated in two 12-session all-male psychoeducational therapy groups. Treatment intervention addressed specific factors which inhibited adequate sexual function with a focus on coping skills to overcome those factors. Pre, post, and follow-up behavioral self-report data and responses on a goal attainment scale questionnaire indicated that the treatment groups were successful for five men with secondary and one man with primary erectile dysfunction. Subjective report and pre- and posttreatment fantasy productions to TAT cards for the first group indicated that all men significantly improved their attitudes about sexuality and their sexual self-concept. The results suggest that this is a viable, cost-effective treatment for secondary erectile dysfunction, but not for primary erectile dysfunction unless supplementary individual therapy is provided.