2 ECVET/ECTS / EQF Level 7 / 1st Year of Study – STS
Module Description:
This module explores the concept of sexual desire through normal and pathological patterns, including satisfaction, lack or loss of desire, and sexual aversion. It also analyses problematic and controversial sexual behaviours and erectile dysfunction. The module covers theoretical foundations, clinical assessment, and therapeutic intervention, enabling participants to understand the complexities of sexual responses and their impact on individual and partnership functioning.
The module includes:
- Normal Sexual Desire and Satisfaction – definitions, biological and psychosocial factors influencing sexual desire, individual differences, and cultural aspects of sexual desire.
- Lack or Loss of Sexual Desire and Sexual Aversion – etiology, clinical diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and psychotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of decreased desire and sexual aversion.
- Problematic and Controversial Sexual Behaviours – the boundary between normative and pathological sexuality, hypersexuality and hyposexuality, the impact of pornography, and compulsive sexual behaviours.
- Erectile Dysfunction – physiological and psychological factors, differential diagnosis, pharmacotherapy, and psychotherapeutic interventions in working with clients experiencing erectile difficulties.
Learning Outcomes:
Competencies
By the end of the module, students will be able to:
a) Differentiate normal sexual desire from sexual desire disorders through clinical assessment and diagnostic interviews.
b) Recognise the influence of biological, psychological, and social factors on sexual desire and satisfaction.
c) Apply therapeutic strategies when working with clients experiencing sexual desire problems and erectile dysfunction.
Knowledge
By the end of the module, students will acquire:
a) Knowledge of the neurobiological, hormonal, and psychological mechanisms of sexual desire.
b) Understanding of diagnostic criteria for sexual dysfunctions related to decreased sexual desire, sexual aversion, and erectile dysfunction.
c) Insight into therapeutic methods, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, pharmacological, and integrative approaches in client work.
Skills
By the end of the module, students will develop:
a) The ability to recognise symptoms related to sexual desire disorders and erectile dysfunction.
b) The skill to integrate various therapeutic approaches in working with individuals and couples.
c) Competence to work with specific clinical populations experiencing issues with sexual desire and erectile dysfunction.
Assessment of Knowledge and Competencies:
The module is assessed through:
– Written assignment – Clinical case analysis of sexual dysfunctions.
– Presentation – Critical analysis of scientific research on sexual desire.
– Practical demonstration – Simulation of a therapy session focusing on interventions for sexual dysfunctions.
Total Learning Hours:
| Total learning hours: 60 hours | Independent study (literature, assignment preparation): 20 hours |
| Contact hours (lectures, exercises, presentations, practicum, clinical practice, supervision): 35 hours | Knowledge assessment (exam and presentations): 5 hours |