What's new in sex therapy? From stagnation to fragmentation

Abstract

Three of the major trends in the field of sex therapy are reviewed. The first of these is the prevailing conception of sex therapy as the treatment of symptoms of sexual dysfunctions and disorders. The weak early, theoretical foundations’ of sex therapy permitted the confounding of symptoms of sexual difficulties with underlying problems per se. This confusion has eventuated in the under-development of the field, now apparent in theory, research, practice and training. The second trend is the continuing and accelerating medicalization of sexuality, sexual problems and their treatment. Impressive advances in biomechanical and pharmacological methods are being embraced whether or not they apply to a science of human sexuality. Concurrently, market-driven obstacles to the growth of the field (e.g., the reluctance of HMOs to reimburse couples for treatment of relational problems) act as deterrents to studying and providing comprehensive treatment options. The third trend is the fragmentation of our field, such that both the nature of services provided and the profession itself are becoming increasingly splintered. The need for an interdisciplinary meeting ground for clinicians of diverse backgrounds is highlighted. These trends and their implications for sex therapy are explored.