Group treatment format: Mixed sexual dysfunctions

Abstract

This study reports the rationale and results of a ten-session group composed of six couples with mixed sexual dysfunctions. Dysfunctions included premature ejaculation, primary and situational orgasmic dysfunction, situational impotence, and incompatible sex drives. A variety of pretreatment behavioral and attitudinal measures were administered, including a Life History Questionnaire, Sexual Assessment Inventory, Marital Adjustment Scale, and Sexual Interaction Inventory. Postgroup measures revealed marked increases in marital satisfaction, orgasmic attainment, ejaculatory control, and enhan ed self-acceptance, particularly for females (SII changes). The consistency between outcome measures was also a noteworthy finding. The results suggest increased use of mixed short-term groups, particularly when cost-effectiveness accountability is important. One contraindication for such groups is, however, severe marital discord, as evidenced by Locke-Wallace mean scores of 80 or less.