The Psychology of Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction is a major chronic condition affecting hundreds of millions of individuals worldwide. This review provides a concise overview of research on the psychological experience of erectile dysfunction. There is evidence that psychological factors such as personality, depression, stress, and cognitive interference (e.g., performance worry, shifts in attentional focus) contribute to erectile problems. There is also evidence that the experience of erectile dysfunction can have negative psychological effects, including feelings of emasculation and humiliation, decreases in self-confidence and feelings of self-worth, feelings of isolation and loneliness, increases in depression, and decreases in subjective well-being. Effects on the affected individuals’ sexual partner include feelings of being unattractive, feelings of rejection, feeling unloved, decreases in self-esteem, and frustration. Psychological interventions (particularly multimodal interventions) show promise for treating erectile dysfunction, but more research is needed to help establish their effectiveness. We present a brief research agenda of critical areas in need of further study. This review should be of interest to the general public and also researchers looking to develop a program of research in sexual health psychology that focuses on the psychological experience of erectile dysfunction.

Prospective Patient Preferences for Humor in Urologists Treating Erectile Dysfunction: A Survey Study

“…The stigmatized nature of erectile dysfunction often results in psychosocial challenges for patients, including anxiety, depression, frustration, and diminished self-confidence [2,15]. To foster trust, physicians need empathy and cultural awareness when addressing topics that are a source of embarrassment for patients [6].…”

A Review on Risk Factors, Diagnostic Innovations, and Plant Based Therapies for the Management of Erectile Dysfunction

“…Various physiological events, including the emotions involved in sexual excitation, are largely initiated by the brain. Further, anxiety, depression, several mental illnesses, stress, relationship issues, inadequate communication, and other issues can significantly affect sexual performance [14,15]. Depression and performance anxiety are among the most common psychogenic ED factors because they can alter erectile processes by raising cortisol levels and activating the nervous system.…”

“…Conscious and unconscious factors, such as performance anxiety, work stress, and strained personal relationships, can also affect ED. One of the underlying reasons for erectile dysfunction is performance anxiety, which can interfere with the brain signals that generate and sustain erections [14].…”