ABSTRACT

Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) are among the most researched types of psychological interventions for low sexual desire in women. While both have been found effective in improving women’s sexual desire, little is known about how women personally experience these treatments. To closely examine both approaches from a participant’s perspective, semi-structured telephone-based interviews were conducted with 51 cis-women (M_age = 39, SD = 11, range = 22 to 69) who participated in a randomized controlled study comparing internet-based CBT and MBT for low sexual desire with a waitlist. Interview data were analyzed using thematic and content analysis. Most women (n = 44, 86.3%) evaluated their respective treatment (i.e., CBT or MBT) as helpful in improving their sexual desire. CBT-techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, were mentioned as being helpful for challenging maladaptive thinking patterns, while formal mindfulness-exercises allowed women to disengage from negative sexuality-related thoughts. Elements of sex therapy, including self-stimulation exercises and sensate focus, were perceived as crucial for getting women in touch with their sexual desires and preferences. Strengths of the online format included anonymity, flexibility, and convenient access. Overall, women’s personal accounts supported feasibility, acceptability, and clinical usefulness of CBT- and MBT-based internet interventions targeting low sexual desire.

摘要

认知行为 (CBT) 和正念疗法 (MBT) 是研究最多的针对女性性欲低下的心理干预类型。虽然两者都被发现能有效改善女性的性欲，但人们对女性如何亲身体验这些治疗知之甚少。为了从参与者的角度仔细检查这两种方法，对 51 名顺势女性（ M_年龄 = 39，SD = 11，范围 = 22 至 69）进行了基于电话的半结构化访谈， 她们参与了一项随机对照研究，比较互联网-基于 CBT 和 MBT 的低性欲与候补名单。使用主题和内容分析来分析访谈数据。大多数女性（n= 44, 86.3%) 评价他们各自的治疗（即 CBT 或 MBT）有助于提高他们的性欲。CBT 技术，如认知重构，被认为有助于挑战适应不良的思维模式，而正式的正念练习可以让女性摆脱与性相关的负面想法。性治疗的要素，包括自我刺激练习和感觉焦点，被认为对于让女性接触到她们的性欲望和偏好至关重要。在线格式的优势包括匿名性、灵活性和方便的访问。总体而言，女性的个人账户支持针对低性欲的基于 CBT 和 MBT 的互联网干预措施的可行性、可接受性和临床实用性。