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Sexual and relationship problems
Sexual and relationship problems means in this
context a negative behavioral pattern in a
relationship. Two partners have little or no
benefit from each other. There is a lack of mutual
appreciation, respect and common meaningful
activities. There can exist a lot quarrels,
criticisms, threats and punishments. It can be
difficult to handle differences of opinion and to
solve problems together. The result can be
continuous conflicts, frustrations, low
expectations, easily triggered negative
attitudes/feelings, constant dissatisfaction,
irritability and a lack of positive and warm
feelings.
Sometimes relationship problems can lead to
negative effects on the sexual life, and sometimes
sexual functional disturbances can be the primary
problem. The purpose with a treatment of
relationship problems is to change negative thought
and behavioral patterns and create a mutual
positive interaction. Treatment for sexual problems
often aim at diminishing anxiety and other negative
feelings related to these activities. Other
purposes can include the strengthening of sexual
feelings and/or development of new social
skills.
In some cases other psychological problems may be
the cause to that the sexual life or relationship
with ones partner isn't working well. When this is
the case it is important to assess whether the
psychological problems should be treated before or
in parallel with the sexual and relationship
problems. It can even be so that a psychological
problem disables a sexual life because they are
related to each other through negative learning
experiences. People that have experienced sexual
abuse can develop various psychological
disturbances. For example, posttraumatic stress
disorder that can result in an avoidance of sexual
activities with ones partner because such an
activity elicits to many painful feelings due to
the trauma. Physical approaches can remind of the
abuse that one has experienced and lead to a strong
fear and other negative feelings. When this occurs
one may avoid physical contact in order to lessen
the fear.
© Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) specialist in
Stockholm, 2005-2008, www.kbterapi.se
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