Psychological Factors Related to Impotence as a Sexual Dysfunction in Young Men: A Literature Scan for Noteworthy Research Frameworks

Abstract

Despite the increasing interest in clinical practice in sexual dysfunction (SD) and the related relevance of psychological outcomes for young people, this area has been neglected in scientific scenarios. This study aims to draw on recent scientific findings and propose future research perspectives on the risk factors, diagnostic issues, and therapies that address SD for the under-40 age category, with particular attention paid to various psychological aspects. A literature search was conducted on studies published between March 2011 and March 2021. Anxiety, depression, and relational conflicts can both cause and affect sexual dysfunction. Psychological interventions have also proved to be important to organic causes; however, no review has found either sex education programs or multidisciplinary therapies. A multidisciplinary approach involving medical doctors and psychologists (trained in psychosexology) would improve not only the recognition of disorders through organic and psychogenic symptoms, but also treatment effectiveness.