Sexual dysfunctions among special populations

Abstract

Sexual dysfunctions may be experienced by any individual at any stage of adulthood, irrespective of their health, sexual orientation or level of intellectual functioning. The approach taken to the treatment of sexual difficulties is essentially the same for all people, but a chapter related to ‘special’ populations is warranted for three reasons. First, sexual difficulties occur more frequently amongst certain populations such as the elderly, the physically handicapped or those with certain diseases or illness. Second, a therapist attempting to treat a psychosexual difficulty with a client with special characteristics needs to be aware of the many factors which may influence that person’s sexual functioning which may not be applicable to other clients. These factors may be particularly important in enabling the therapist to understand the aetiology of the disorder. Third, the factors that make the person special may require that the therapist adapt the therapy programme to the particular needs of that individual, if therapy is to be successful.