Showing papers by "Eli Coleman published in 2003"

Masturbation as a Means of Achieving Sexual Health

Abstract: Research on masturbation has indicated that, contrary to traditional beliefs, masturbation has been found to be a common sexual behavior and linked to indicators of sexual health. While there are no general indicators of ill health associated with masturbation, it can be powerfully negative or positive for many individuals. As an example, it is widely used in sex therapy as a means of improving the sexual health of the individual and/or relationship. Promoting masturbation as a means of a public health strategy for sexual health is highly controversial; however, there are arguments and evidence that suggest that this may be an important part of any public health approach to improving sexual health. There is a need for more research on the impact of masturbation on self-esteem, body image, sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction and methods for using masturbation to promote sexual health. There is also a need for more of a theoretical approach to the formation of hypotheses to be tested.

Assessment and treatment of compulsive sexual behavior.

Abstract: The hallmarks of compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) are recurrent and intense sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, and behaviors that cause individuals distress in daily functioning. Clinical signs of CSB can include anxiety, depression, somatic complaints, alcohol or drug use or dependency, relationship problems, or signs of abuse. This article describes the symptoms of paraphilic and nonparaphilic CSB and discusses their epidemiology, etiology, as well as comorbid psychiatric conditions. It also presents screening questions that clinicians can use with patients suspected of having CSB and outlines medical and psychiatric treatment for the condition. When CSB is suspected, referral to a clinician experienced in treating sexual disorders is recommended.