Plethysmography in the assessment and treatment of sexual deviance: an overview

Abstract

Theoretical and practical implications of previous research on plethysmography in the assessment and modification of sexual preferences has been limited by insufficient attention to definitional and procedural issues and sample heterogeneity. This paper reviews current theory and research on the use of the penile plethysmograph to diagnose or predict sexual deviance and to monitor therapeutic change in the modification of sexual preferences. Phallometric tests are discussed in terms of the basic components of the measurement technique, evidence of technical adequacy, and general principles underlying their use. The review points to a need to guard against false expectations and erroneous conclusions about sexual deviance based on this measurement technique. A case is made for closer attention to previously untested working assumptions and issues of definition, etiology, and measurement. Directions for future research are proposed.