Introduction
Clinicians working in the field of couple and family therapy often encounter issues of sexual dysfunction and substance use in their clients. Many individuals cite the use of licit and illicit drugs as a way to relax, increase sexual desire, or assist them in feeling more capable of engaging in sexual behavior (Rany and Anthony 2011). However, increasing research has found that psychoactive substances like alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis can negatively impact sexual functioning. Sexual dysfunctions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), premature/delayed ejaculation, vaginal dryness, pain with intercourse, and low libido have been linked to substance use (Diehl et al. 2016). One reason for this link is because substances can affect the chemical responses of the body and decrease the required blood flow response necessary for arousal and the engorgement of tissues for lubrication and erection (Anais et al. 2012).
Theoretical Context for Concept
Social isolation, poor...
References
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Martinez, E., Foley, S. (2017). Substance-/Medication-Induced Sexual Dysfunction in Couple and Family Therapy. In: Lebow, J., Chambers, A., Breunlin, D. (eds) Encyclopedia of Couple and Family Therapy. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15877-8_463-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15877-8_463-1
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