Beyond Dysfunction: A New View of Women's Sexual Problems

TLDR

A feminist‑led framework and classification system for women's sexual problems was introduced in October 2000. The document critiques the APA nomenclature for women's sexual problems, highlights international sexual rights, and is intended for professionals and the public. It defines sexual problems as discontent with any aspect of sexual experience and categorizes causes into sociocultural, partner/relationship, psychological, and medical factors. The document spans pages 228–229.

Abstract

A new theoretical framework and classification system for women's sexual problems, written by feminist clinicians and social scientists, was released in October 2000. Part one critiques the current American Psychiatric Association nomenclature for women's sexual programs. Part two highlights international sexual rights documents. Part three begins with a women-centered definition of sexual problems: "discontent of dissatisfaction with any emotional, physical, or relational aspect of sexual experience" (pp. 228-229). It also provides four categories of causes: (a) sociocultural, political, or economic factors; (b) partner and relationship factors; (c) psychological factors; and (d) medical factors. The document is designed for professionals and the public.