Inequalities of power and sexual problems |
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| Authors: | Sally Foreman Rudi Dallos† |
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| Institution: | Tutor and Research Associate —Open University, 59 Southside Street, Plymouth, Devon PL1 2LA, UK.;Staff Tutor in Psychology, Open University;and Exeter Dept. of Clinical and Community Psychology. |
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| Abstract: | The proposition that sexual problems can emerge as a response to structural inequalities of power is explored by reference to a case which forms part of our current clinical work and research in this area. It is suggested that inequalities of power between heterosexual partners and societal 'discourses' which support the use of sexuality, predominantly by women, as an influence strategy, can serve to promote the development and maintenance of sexual symptoms as forms of covert power struggles. An integration is attempted of systemic and feminist theories with some practical suggestions for therapists working with couples with sexual problems. |
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