|
Couples who participated in a sex therapy program that included viewing sexually explicit audiovisual slides and movies, demonstrated changes in sexual behavior, sexual desires, sexual communication and marital communication according to a recent study. The research studied the impact of sexual therapy on sexual behaviors and marital communication, and was conducted by the University of Texas Medical Branch.
Treatment Program
A total of 224 people, ranging in age from 25 to 34, participated in a sex therapy treatment program designed to change sexual behaviors. The treatment program, patterned after the Masters and Johnson approach, included a 2 day workshop format with individual as well as group sessions that included an initial intake interview, a self-administered sexual history questionnaire, a medical examination, and group instructional sessions led by a sex therapist. During the seminar, couples were given explicit information and audiovisual slides and movies during group instructional sessions. Couples were then asked to adjourn to their rooms for a private practice session. The study confirmed a number of findings relating to the impact of sex therapy on sexual behaviors and marital communication.
Sexual Behavior
After attending the treatment sessions, some couples experienced:
 |
a narrowing of the gap between actual and desired sexual behaviors |
 |
an increased acceptance of a wider range of sexual activities |
 |
effective treatment in several areas of sexual dysfunction including premature ejaculation, impotence, ejaculatory incompetence, dyspareunia and sexual aversion |
 |
a noticeable increase in sexual activity in all areas of sexual behavior |
 |
an increase in non-demanding activities such as viewing and being viewed nude, massaging and caressing |
Communication
Couples noted the following changes after attending the workshops:
 |
a significant increase in reported communication before, during and after sexual activity |
 |
an increased focus on one's own ability to communicate with a partner and not focusing on a partner's ability to communicate |
 |
significant increase in marital communication |
This study appeared in the Spring 1981 edition of the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy, Vol. 7, No. 1. |