Strategies and techniques for the reduction of sexual anxiety

In this paper 14 anxiety-reduction techniques are discussed: use of bibliotherapy, use of audiovisual materials, in vivo desensitization via written, programmed exercises; self-exploration/masturbation training; orgasmic reconditioning; simulated orgasm experiences; implosion techniques; sex word desensitization; sexual assertion training; therapist modeling/self-disclosure; systematic desensitization; and cue-controlled relaxation. The sex therapist can integrate these techniques into the sex therapy contract with individuals or couples and use them either singly or in a sequential multiple technique format to reduce sexual anxiety.