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Assessing Sexual Dysfunction in Hispanic Clients

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Guide to Psychological Assessment with Hispanics

Abstract

In an attempt to guide clinicians in the assessment of sexual dysfunction in Hispanic clients, this chapter first provides a brief description of the sexual dysfunctions currently classified in the DSM-IV, along with forthcoming revisions to the DSM-5. The scarce prevalence literature is then reviewed with an emphasis on the lack of validation of assessment methods with this population. The clinical interview remains the most culturally adaptable tool, although a description of global sexual function and dysfunction-specific measures is provided, despite the lack of Hispanic norms. Finally, recommendations are made to attend to cultural factors that may have a particularly pointed impact on the sexual lives of Hispanic clients. Among these are verguenza, religious beliefs, gender roles, and racial/ethnic stereotypes. The assessment of Hispanic-American clients with sexual difficulties requires (1) flexibility in the use of measures largely standardized on other populations and (2) a clinical interview informed by the potential relevance of cultural factors.

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Correspondence to Marta Meana Ph.D. .

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Meana, M., Oliver, T.L., Jones, S.C. (2013). Assessing Sexual Dysfunction in Hispanic Clients. In: Benuto, L. (eds) Guide to Psychological Assessment with Hispanics. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-4412-1_13

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