The epidemiology of the DSM-III psychosexual dysfunctions

Abstract

The findings of 22 general population sex surveys are reanalyud to assess the evalence and distribution of the Psychosexual Dysfunctions as defined by DSM-III. Methodological shortcomings of the studies and problems with utilizing data originally collected for other purposes are discussed. Prevalence is estimated to be: Inhibited Female Orgasm, 5–30 + %; Inhibited Male Orgasm, 5%; Premature Ejaculation, 35%; Inhibited Sexual Excitement, 10–20% for men, indeterminate for women; Inhibited Sexual Desire, 1–15% for men, 1–35% for women. The author discusses the usefulness of epdemiologzcal data for clinical, research, and public health undertakings.