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there is developing evidence for some guided self-help approaches (Hay, 2013). A cogni-
tive therapist is very direct, forcing clients to see how their beliefs do not stand up when
considered in “the light of day” and helping them form new, more constructive ways of
thinking about themselves and their behavior. to Learning Objective 15.5. Treat-
ment of binge-eating disorder may use some of the same strategies used for anorexia and
bulimia, with the added issue of weight loss management in those with obesity.Sexual Dysfunctions and Problems
14.12 Describe types of sexual dysfunction and explain how they may
develop.
A sexual dysfunction is a problem with sexual functioning, or with the actual physical
workings of the sex act. Sexual dysfunctions involve problems in three possible areas
of sexual activity: sexual interest, arousal, and response.How common are problems like these—aren’t they pretty rare?Results of surveys from around the globe suggest that about 40 to 45 percent of
women and 20 to 30 percent of men have at least one sexual dysfunction, and the rate
increases as we age (Lewis et al., 2010). In fact, the figures may actually be higher than
those reported. As stated in Chapter One, one of the hazards of doing survey research is
that people don’t always tell the truth ( to Learning Objective 1.6). If a person is
going to lie about sexual problems, the most likely lie (or distorted truth) would probably
be to deny or minimize such problems.
There are a variety of physical sexual dysfunctions included in the DSM-5. Sexual
desire or arousal disorders include female sexual interest/arousal disorder and male hypo-
active sexual desire disorder. Disorders related to the physical act of intercourse include
erectile disorder and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder. And last, disorders related to
the timing or inability to reach orgasm include premature (early) ejaculation, female orgas-
mic disorder, and delayed ejaculation (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Watch the
video Sexual Problems and Dysfunction for more information on some of these disorders.sexual dysfunction
a problem in sexual functioning. Watch the Video^ Sexual Problems and Dysfunction
CC