Group Treatment of Sexual Dysfunctions: A Methodological Review of the Outcome Literature

Abstract

This paper reviewed 36 studies which examined the effects of the group format in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. The methodological evaluation was conducted within the following sections: subjects, therapists, treatment goals, group composition, time format, treatment, outcome measures and assessment times. Numerous methodological deficiencies were found, most notably the inadequate definitions of dysfunction and treatment success, the failure to control for therapist or expectancy factors, the failure to isolate the specific effects of different treatments, and an absence of control or comparison groups. The data tentatively suggest that a group format is effective in the treatment of female orgasmic dysfunction and secondary erectile dysfunction. Same-sex only groups and couples' groups promote comparable improvements. It is premature to make any conclusive statements regarding the relative efficacy of group and individual treatment formats. Future investigators should examine the specific and relative effects of the various treatment components and explore the potential therapeutic advantages of the group in the treatment of sexual dysfunction.