All About This Forum

I welcome therapists of all persuasions to join me in exploring the psychological, sociological, and political aspects of sexual behavior and feelings. We will have a chance to discuss clinical techniques, journals and books, popular culture, and other topics relevant to clinical work around sexuality, intimacy, and love.

Here's what's on my mind these days. I invite your thoughts on any of the following:

Female sexuality and male sexuality are much more similar than different. There are serious clinical and political disadvantages to the Mars/Venus approach. What is a better approach?

The psychology profession states in various ways that long-term monogamy is the "healthiest" form of sexual behavior. What is the evidence for this? What are the clinical and political implications of this belief?

Assume that a particular patient's medical profile is entirely compatible with Viagra use. Say he has erection problems. Under what conditions, if any, would you discourage the use of Viagra?

Similarly, when and why would you discourage the use of SSRIs to treat rapid ejaculation?

I look forward to receiving your posts, and moderating the challenging conversations that are sure to follow.

--Marty Klein, Ph.D

• OLD FASHIONED WISDOM by Le Roux Els, Psychiatrist, South Africa, 11/21/98