Post-Traumatic Stress, Sexual Trauma and Dissociative Disorder: Issues Related to Intimacy and Sexuality

• NCJ Number: 153416
• Author(s): M F Schwartz; L D Galperin; W H Masters
• Date Published: Unknown
• Length: 68 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services; Masters and Johnson Institute
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Understanding post-traumatic stress disorders resulting from extreme stress and dissociative solutions, facilitates the assessment of sexual and intimacy disorders.

Abstract

Until recently, the inability to comprehend the development of sexually compulsive symptomatology led to a symptom-based nosology and emphasis in treatment. This treatment emphasis was necessary but insufficient for many clients. Trauma-based treatment holds promise for helping many others make substantial changes in their sexual behavior. The authors present a conceptual framework for developing therapeutic interventions for clients who have dissociative disorders. They discuss the impact of sexual abuse on sexuality and the experience of sexual trauma and identify three optimum phases of treatment: (1) establishing control of behavior; (2) resolving trauma and integrating dissociated parts of self; and (3) relearning the building blocks which comprise the capacity to establish and maintain healthy relationships, including sexuality. 39 references and 7 tables