Psychologically based treatment for male erectile disorder: a cognitive-interpersonal model

Abstract

Treatment approaches for male erectile disorder (MED) have proliferated in recent years. Due to the growing emphasis on medical or surgical approaches to treatment, however, there has been a relative neglect of the psychological or interpersonal dimensions of the problem. The present article describes a five-part model for time-limited, cognitive-interpersonal treatment of male erectile disorder. Key elements of the model are: psychoeducational and cognitive intervention; sexual and performance anxiety reduction; script assessment and modification; conflict resolution and relationship enhancement; and relapse prevention training. Although intended primarily for use with psychogenic erectile dysfunction in intact couples, the model can be applied to single males or those with organically based erectile difficulties. Several case examples are provided and the limitations of the model are discussed.