The Use of Online Services to Encourage Exploration of Ego-Dystonic Sexual Interests

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Abstract
One of the most difficult sexual relationship pressures a couple can face is that when one partner desires to engage in a particular sexual activity and the other partner is unable or unwilling to comply. In some cases, this unwillingness is due to nervousness caused by believing that the partner's desired behavior is statistically or otherwise abnormal. Such reluctance can be addressed by demonstrating to the reluctant partner that the behavior desired by his/her partner is not unique, nor even statistically abnormal. One newly available means of doing this is to introduce both partners to online services (e.g., the Internet). Internet newsgroups exist that deal with virtually every legal paraphilia. Other online services (e.g., CompuServe, America Online, Prodigy) feature similar areas, places where partners can explore their ideas in comfort, safety, and anonymity. A case study is presented that shows how these services can be used to help partners overcome irrational concerns regarding the “normalcy” of desired sexual behavior, and to help therapists become more knowledgeable about the issues facing their clients.

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit:

  • Sex Therapy
    Published by Oxford University Press (OUP) ,1985