Sexual Dysfunctions

The other day in class we talked about sexual dysfunctions. We were asked what comes to mind when you think sexual dysfunctions. When I first thought about it, I figured problems that men may have or problems among older people. However, the textbook definition of sexual dysfunctions are the persistent or recurrent difficulties becoming sexually aroused or reaching orgasm. From this definition, the thoughts that come to mind cover a much broader selection of people which may include woman as well as men, and not only older people, but younger too. There are two types of sexual dysfunctions, one being sexual desire disorders and the other being sexual arousal disorders. Sexual desire disorder is when an individual has little or no sexual interest, while sexual arousal disorder is the physiological inability to engage in sexual activity - while men may have have troubles with erection, women may have trouble with lubrication for example. It was also discussed that likely everyone has or will experience some form of sexual dysfunction with their partner, it is just not widely talked about. Effective communication and listening skills come in important here, if a couple is having troubles with sexual dysfunctions, then it is important that they should be able to talk about it. If not, the partner experiencing the dysfunction may feel embarrassed, mad, or undergo performance anxiety, likely making the problem worse. However, sexual dysfunctions are not always problems that persist through ones entire life, sometimes they are acquired. As well, just because a person experiences a sexual dysfunction, does not mean that it will happen every time they try to engage in sexual activity. An interesting point can be made however about the name sexual dysfunctions. The way in which people refer to dysfunctions denotes it as being a negative thing. However, we can think about this in terms of Kinsey's studies, who defines sexual normalcy? What is regarded as a dysfunction by most people, some people might be completely fine with. As with most topics pertaining to sexuality, it is what works for you that is the most important factor, and there is not necessarily a right or wrong way.